You've probably heard the phrase "same sh** different day". Based on my title, you're probably expecting me to moan about how the same unpleasantness keeps happening in my life day after day after day... but you would be wrong.
A couple years ago, I wrote a blog titled Thank You and spoke briefly about the value of expressing thanks. But this basic event repeated itself with a different kid earlier this week. And I started thinking about how quick I am to get stuck on the yucky stuff, and just skim over the good things. Like when my children are laughing together. Or that I woke up without pain. Or having the strength and brainpower to tackle today's list. Or a chat with a friend. Or sunshine instead of rain (or vice versa!). Or pumpkin spice everything! ;)
Did you know that when you make an effort to be thankful, it is very difficult to be bitter or angry or otherwise unhappy? We sometimes play a game where we take turns listing things for which we are thankful. (Inevitably video games and food are mentioned. =)) It sounds kind of goofy, but just speaking things for which we CAN be thankful cultivates feelings of thankfulness. But more than anything that I listed so far, if you have placed your trust in Jesus Christ for salvation, you can be thankful that you have been redeemed from your sins and have a future with Christ! And if you have not, and you are reading this, there is still time for you to join us in our hope because you're alive. So go practice some thankfulness!
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:15-17
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!
Psalms 107:1
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