Being Thankful

I have been happily surprised by the book I am reading: "One Thousand Gifts". I thought, "How could a person fill a whole book with just a list of 1,000 things?" But the book is more of a journey to seek a more thankful attitude. She states early on her reason for writing a list is that naming the blessings of God is a way of receiving them and giving thanks for them. She also points out that Paul said , "I have learned the secret to being content in all things...." that it takes a process of learning and some work to be thankful and content. One final example that stuck out to me was the story of the 10 lepers that Jeusus cleansed. One returns and gives thanks to Jesus and He responds, "Go, your faith has made you well". Jesus doesn't just cure him of his leprosy, he gives him an opportunity for a miraculous encounter with the living God and healing for eternity. The reason he got to experience all of this was because he had a thankful heart- thankfulness preceeded the miracle. How many times do I forget to express thankfulness for a prayer or desire answered or abundant blessing, and even more so, how many times do I give thanks even before one of these is bestowed?

The Word: "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17

This blog, the same as making a list, is my way of receiving and being thankful for God revealing Himself to me in different ways, for bringing his Word to us, and recommitting parts of myself He has shown me that have strayed. I am interested in also making one of these lists some time- it just sounds like fun and a great way to appreciate God in the ordinary and extraordinary things in life.

Prayer: God, I pray that with every action, response, or request I make, that I will remember and focus on your faithfulness and be overwhelmed by a sense of gratitude that drives my whole being.