Traditionally the month of November kicks off a revelation of the need to have an attitude of gratitude. The upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday is the trigger that turns our attention to the things we may have been taking for granted on the other 364 days of the year.
This past week, I had several reminders about how generous God has been to my children and I over these past years. He has kept us in good health, He has provided for us in more ways than I can count, and He has showered His favor on us in situations that seemed impossible.
There has also been a myriad of “little things” where God’s grace shows up. A perfectly timed phone call or text, an unexpected compliment, or even, favor in the meat department at the grocery store.
It’s easy to overlook these events because of their supposed insignificance in the grand scheme of things. However, I believe when we acknowledge God’s hand in the little things, it keeps us in a perpetual state of gratefulness.
The apostle Paul spoke about this very thing when he told us to:
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (First Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV)
We often wonder what the will of God is for our lives. Well, here it is in black and white. The will of God is for us to rejoice, pray, and give thanks. Pretty simple, yes? I wonder what life would look like if we focused on doing this every day.
I wonder if our hearts would be merrier, our nerves would be calmer, and our stress levels would decrease. We truly do have so much to be thankful for.
As we approach the “gratitude holiday,” I want to encourage you to make a list of every good gift God has given you and your loved ones. Write it all down. I suspect that within a few minutes, you’ll be searching for another piece of paper.
Then, as you gather together around the dinner table, ask your loved ones to do the same. I’m confident that before you know it, there will be a gratitude fest!
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” (James 1:17 NKJV)
Today, I want to express my gratitude for you, my loyal follower. Your continued support and encouragement are a blessing to me. I hope in return that these messages bless you.