Tag Archives: gratitude

May 4
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“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15, NKJV)

The word we translate as “thanks” is used more than 40 times in the New Testament. (And that does not include variants of that word, such as “thanksgiving,” and “gratitude.”)

We have so much for which to be thankful, but we are often without gratitude. I wonder whether it is because we choose to focus on the few things we lack; instead of the many things God has given us, which are already in our possession.

As a nation, one day in November is set-aside for giving thanks. As children of the living God, every day should be “Thanksgiving Day.”  – Luther

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April 25
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“The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.” (Psalm 121:7-8, NLT)

The weekend, with its change in our routine, offers us the opportunity to remember the Lord’s faithfulness to us.

Each day brings its own perils — both seen and unseen.  In each case, God is our protector, sustainer, and guide.
Through reflection, we maintain our sensitivity to these gracious, divine acts; and we remember what He has done for us, and for those near and dear to us.

It is a good thing to recall the loving acts of our heavenly Father!   – Luther

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April 21
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“But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.” (1 Samuel 12:24, NIV)

Memory and gratitude are antidotes to many of the maladies that afflict our soul and that steal the joy of living. These maladies include self-entitlement, greed, a zero-sum view of common resources, and a competitive spirit when cooperation is what is needed.

When we “[remember] what great things [God] has done for [us],” such as giving us the things that money cannot buy (e. g. life, peace, joy, love, security of soul, integrity of mind); and an abundance of the things money can buy (e. g. food, shelter, clothing, transportation).  It provokes within us an enduring reverence for the Lord, and a burning desire to serve him with faithfulness and enthusiasm.

To count the relatively few things we don’t have — instead of the many blessings we do have — sidetracks us from the path that leads to peace with our heavenly Father. Remember — and be thankful.  – Luther

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