Think About Thank: Devotions from Time of GraceExemplo

An attitude of gratitude

“I’ll be happy when I get _____” is a triple trap. For one, it keeps you miserable as you wait impatiently to be fulfilled. Second, wanting more never satisfies, even if you get your first wish, because you then want still more. Third, it cheats you out of the happiness with the wealth that you already possess.

Cultivating a thankful heart and thankful spirit are learned behaviors. You have to choose to be like that, because the attitude you’re born with is one of selfishness, greed, and discontent. By nature we feel cheated, envious of others, and sullen at our lot in life.

Jesus calls us to a better way. He opens our eyes to the gospel of our free and full forgiveness, given to us at the cost of his death. He opens our eyes to our new and wonderful relationship with our heavenly Father, source of all good gifts. He opens our eyes to the great wealth we already have--treasures of possessions, friends, and family. Best of all, he promises that we are not only forgiven but immortal.

The gospel makes us optimists. It also invites us to overhaul our attitudes daily to be in line with our new status in heaven. Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.