Thankfulness

1 Thessalonians 5:16 – Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

The natural tendency when receiving something long enough is to view it as an entitlement.  It is the same way with God’s blessings.  We receive them every day, all day.  But do we actually deserve them?  We often forget to be thankful for all the many blessings we’ve received from God.

Whenever we give thanks to God, no matter the circumstances, the enemy loses.  You see thankfulness is a sacrifice that is pleasing to God.  So when you are going through difficult circumstances and are still able to give God thanks, God is pleased and the enemy loses.

“Thankfulness is a necessary key for a Christ-centered life.” – Elder Melinda Dula

We must make thankfulness and praise a habit in our lives.

Hebrews 13:15 – Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.

Be joyful, pray continually, and give thanks to God in all circumstances.

4 Ways to Practice an Attitude of Gratitude

Thank and Praise God in Everything

God is not saying be thankful FOR everything, but rather be thankful IN everything.  That is, when times are good or bad we must give thanks.  Yes it is a sacrifice.  But we don’t have to do it by ourselves.  We have the Holy Spirit with us.

Don’t Allow Yourself to Complain about Anything

Instead of complaining, think of a way to thank God instead.  You could even say, “Lord, You know I feel like complaining, but I’m going to thank you.”

Philippians 2:14 – Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.

Complaining and arguing is harmful to the gospel of Jesus Christ, because people ultimately focus on us and our issue instead of Jesus Christ.

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

When we look at Romans 12:6, it boils down to being who you were meant to be.

Tell Someone Why You Are Thankful

Whatever the reason, share with someone the reason you are thankful to God.