Starting the day in gratitude is still a work in progress for me. It’s not that I feel ungrateful but rather that it doesn’t even cross my mind. The training continues. Regardless of how I start, it is also important to pursue a thankful attitude as the day goes on.
It’s easy to be grateful for the “good stuff,” at least when I’m mindful. God’s great love, relationships, food on the table, roof over the head, health, and financial comfort – they should never be taken for granted and His provision acknowledged. My mom walks through the day like that. Always blessing God. She lives in wonder and thankfulness – just like her mom. I hope that is passed to me, but I know it isn’t a feeling or even a personality. It’s a habit that’s cultivated until it becomes who we are.
Sometimes it’s not that easy, at least until God pokes me with His truth. Wanting to eat better, I recently complained to a friend that I was hungry. She was experiencing some medical challenges and had lost her appetite so she gently reminded me to be thankful for my hunger. It meant everything was working correctly. So many things I take for granted. I want to have open eyes to the grand expressions of His love, but also for His common grace.
The toughest call to gratitude can be during adversity. I’m reminded of Corrie Ten Boom who's sister thanked God for fleas, because it meant that the guards in the concentration camp left them alone. I just need to thank Him in a tough situation because I know He is there and in control, even if I don’t understand what’s going on.
This isn’t about positive thoughts to make me feel good, but about recognizing God and His goodness. In remembering to say thank you, I acknowledge my needy state as well as His personal love for me.
Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father. James 1:17
