Gratitude as a way of life

Gratitude As a Way of Life

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:18

When the American pilgrims celebrated three days of thanksgiving in 1621 they were doing what came naturally for them: honoring God in the daily course of events. Many had perished. Food was scarce. Their Indian neighbors were hostile. But they survived. It only seemed normal to them to give God thanks. They weren't instituting a public holiday—they were manifesting a lifestyle of gratitude.

In the Old Testament, seven days were set aside for feasts of thanksgiving. In 1621, three days were set aside. Today, we set aside one day—and spend most of that day focused on food and football. A national day of Thanksgiving is certainly better than none at all, but how much better would be if every person lived a life of gratitude toward God—365 days a year. No special meals would be required—just daily gratitude for the Bread of Life. No unique decorations would be called for—just the fragrant aroma of thankfulness. And no invitations would need to be sent—other than inviting people to taste and see that the Lord is good.

If you are grateful to God for His blessings, make sure it's an everyday kind of gratitude—beginning today.

God is never less than generous, even when we are less than grateful.
 John Blanchard

Jeremiah, David. "Gratitude as a Way of Life." Turning Points Magazine & Devotional. November 2008, 41.