I’ve observed over the years that grateful people are often characterized by joy and are quite pleasant to be around whereas ungrateful people never seem to be satisfied but are constantly struggling. The difference is not in circumstances nor in possessions – as Sheryl Crow sang, “It’s not having what you want. It’s wanting what you’ve got.”   The difference is in their attitude.

Thornton Wilder said, “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.”  Sure we’re thankful for the big events in our lives but can we find gratitude in the common everyday occurrences of life?  How often do we take our daily blessings for granted?

If I do not have an attitude of gratitude I tend to focus on what I don’t have and I miss all that I do have.  Unfortunately sometimes it’s only after we suffer loss that we realize all that we had.  The Apostle Paul demonstrated a thankful heart as he wrote to Timothy, his co-laborer in the faith,

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, 1 Timothy 1:12

Paul was thankful not only that God had given him new life but that he had given him the privilege of sharing the Gospel with others.  Can you identify with Paul?  Don’t let what you don’t have blind you to all that you do have – choose to have an attitude of gratitude!  What is one thing you are thankful for?

Rick Higgins

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University