Failing at Thankfulness
Confession: I need to work on being thankful for God’s grace and provision in my life. It’s a realization I’ve come to recently as about 90% of my prayers have been pleas of blessing, forgiveness, wisdom and discernment. Yet, when God has blessed me in difficult times, am I thankful? Yes. Do I collapse to my knees and say thanks? Well, let’s say it’s something I need to work on.
As it’s come to my attention I’ve noticed that I’ve placed things out of order regarding the priorities in my life. Discovering this imbalance makes me want to reorganize my thoughts and heart to always be mindful of what He has placed in front of me, and the ways he’s provided for me.
The scriptures are filled with examples of why I am to be thankful: His love endures forever (Psalm 136:3) He is good (Psalm 118:29) In everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ (1 Thess. 5:18).
I find myself sharing with others how God has pulled me through difficult times, but who do I find I forget to share my gratefulness with? God.
So consider this confession a line in the sand regarding a heart change I’m asking for. I don’t know if you face the same thing I do. Whether I find my attention on day-to-day scenarios, or if I’m inundating my thoughts on meaningless entertainment, I’m taking the next step in wanting a heart of thankfulness.
I’m asking God to fill my thoughts in the ways he’s sustaining my every breath and actions. In asking for a grateful heart, I want to combat any harmful emotion or state of mind that would steal the peace and joy God wants for me.
Let me end with this last scripture, which is just as much a teaching moment for me as it is anyone else.
“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 NIV
So I remind myself to say thanks- even when I don’t feel like it.