Selfishness is the root of a life that fails to show gratitude to God. Selfishness affects our view. Too often, it skews our view of God and our present circumstances. So, as a result, we look around at others with envy and jealousy for what they have without any thoughts about what we truly have. Some have said to look around at the plight of others and you will then give thanks for what you have. I’m really not so sure. If we have to look around us to develop gratitude, we will be grateful for the wrong things.
[Tweet ““In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich.” ― Dietrich Bonhoeffer “] Our gratitude is not a reflection but a reaction. The bottom line is that we will display gratitude to God in our lives when we have a clear and biblical understanding of God and His love for us. We can never be truly grateful and express gratitude until we understand that God loves us so much that “He gave His only Son” and “whoever believes in Him will have eternal life.” Experiencing eternal life in the presence of the Creator of the Universe is an amazing gift. I think we sometimes forget how much God loves us and just exactly what that means.
Not only do we have the chance to experience eternal life, but God also promises us amazing joy in this current life. Let me explain. Joy does not necessarily mean happiness or prosperity or health or things. Joy means contentment in God’s plan, purpose, and provision for our us. Are you? It is a great question to ask as we think through this season of thanks. Are we really content living within the parameters of God’s plan, purpose, and provision for us? Here’s the issue. When we become discontent with God’s plan, purpose, and provision, we begin looking around at others and selfishness creeps into the picture.
This season, let me encourage you to learn to be content in God. He provides us with family, love, and a promise of an amazing future with Him. As you learn to be content with God’s plan, purpose, and provision, He will also provide opportunities for you to share that with others. Remember, as we bring glory to God, He is exalted and draws people to Himself!
Happy Thanksgiving!