Today, I am taking a moment to give thanks to GOD for His blessings and mercies to my family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Although every day is not “Thanksgiving”, we can still give thanks, to God, every day. One American, famous scholar, educator, and religious leader Neal A. Maxwell once said, “We should certainly count our blessings, but we should also make our blessings count.”
In speaking about giving thanks, the Apostle Paul said under inspiration, “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:20.
The subject of gratitude is seen throughout the Bible. But what is gratitude? It is said, “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues but the parent of all others.” Cicero.
All of us must admit, most times, that it is more natural to be entitled and selfish than grateful and humble.
This is why we must ask God to help us cultivate the spirit of gratitude.
Here are six habits of gratitude that will help us cultivate gratitude to God. By Mark Cole - Cultivating Gratitude.
1. “Put people first
Putting others first has a way of shifting our priorities, and putting things back into proper perspective.
2. Appreciate timing
Life is a journey, not a destination, so appreciate where you are. Solomon wrote, “There is a time for every purpose under heaven.”
3. Develop the habit of giving
Nothing loosens a person’s grip on the spirit of selfishness like giving things away. It purifies motives and lightens the heart.
4. Learn to enjoy things without ownership
The more things you can enjoy without having to control or own them, the lighter (the) things will have on you.
5. Express gratitude for your blessings
If we are honest with ourselves, we will admit that we don’t deserve any of the things God has given us. Consider this reminder from the book of James, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights” (James 1:17). When you recognize that what you have is a gift, to begin with, it’s easier to give it up or give it away.
6. Maintain an eternal perspective”
“Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.” Epicurus.
THE position of our text in the epistle today is worthy of our observation. It follows the precept concerning sacred song, in which believers bid to speak to themselves and one another in Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in their hearts to the Lord. If they cannot always find a song to sing, they should ask God to help them always maintain a song in their heart in every circumstance.
This is the day to give thanks! Psalms 34:3 says, “O magnify the LORD with me and let us exalt his name together.”
As you go through your day today, take the three take times with you.
1. Take time, to thank God for all His blessings in your life this year.
2. Take time, to invite others to join you, as you thank God for His goodness, mercy, and truth to all generations.
3. Take time, to thank God for His goodness and mercy to us in good times and bad times. For someone bigger than you and I is in control, and that someone is the Almighty God!
By GARDEN MINISTRY
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