Thankfulness: “Sincerely showing others my gratitude for their effect on my life.”
Why should we care about thankfulness? It encourages others; it lifts our outlook on life; it is an antidote for anger, discouragement, and envy. It helps us respond positively to difficult circumstances, and it enhances contentment and peace.
Opposite words are ungratefulness, complaining, and criticism: “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life . . .” (Philippians 2:14-16)
Thankfulness Quotes:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
“When it comes to life, the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude.” (G. K. Chesterton)
“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thess. 5:18)
“So much has been given to me, I have not time to ponder over that which has been denied.” (Helen Keller – deaf and blind from the age of 19 months)
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, Who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17)
“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” (William Arthur Ward)
What can you do to grow in thankfulness during 2013?
- Create a “Blessing Book,” remembering the ways God has blessed you.
- Write a psalm thanking God for all your blessings.
- Say “Thank you” more often.
How have you successfully taught your family, Sunday school class, or students to grow in thankfulness?
