Attitude of Gratitude
I found this quote by Henri Nouwen today while preparing
this message,
“Gratitude as a discipline involves a conscious choice. I can
choose to be grateful even when my emotions and feelings are
still steeped in hurt and resentment. It is amazing how many
occasions present themselves in which I can choose gratitude
instead of a complaint.”
Choosing gratitude is a lot easier said than done. Why? Because
the human mind naturally gravitates toward the negative, and
unfortunately, you don’t have to look very far or hard to find
it. News stories spend a hefty amount of time on the gloom
and doom in the world — global warming, economic cliffs,
and Middle East uprisings— while the heart-warming stuff has
a 5-minute time slot (if that). The most highly acclaimed
movies often focus on violence or unfaithfulness. And bestselling
books often celebrate the worst of human traits.
Goodness and gratitude just don’t sell.
Adding to this, our everyday lives are also fraught with
challenges and failings. When asked what you’d change about
your experience, I bet you could come up with a whole laundry
list of items, yet if asked what you’re genuinely content with,
you might just have a handful of things.
An attitude of gratitude is the only way you’ll ever triumph over
life’s difficulties and become closer to God. Scientific studies
have shown that when people focus on what they are grateful
for and make gratitude an intentional and routine part of their
day (i.e., through prayer or keeping a gratitude journal), they
are more at peace with themselves and others.
The Bible also urges us to give thanks. Psalm 22:3 says that
God inhabits the praises of His people. How amazing is that?
Your words of thanks are actually “God-Inhabited.” If that
doesn’t put the power into gratitude, I don’t know what will.
As we enter the Thanksgiving season, allow God and
thankfulness to inhabit your words and actions.
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THOSE WHO SACRIFICE THANK OFFERINGS
HONOR ME…
