Attitude of Gratitude: Thankfulness

Thankfulness is an attitude. It is a choice that we make every day. Is it only to be used when receiving something, or can it be expressed at other times? Possessing a thankful heart is a principle of godly living that we shouldn’t ignore.

One day 10 men with leprosy approached Jesus and loudly pled with him for healing. In a moment of time, he restored all of them to perfect health. Here is what happened next: One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, “Praise God!”

He fell to the ground at Jesus’ feet, thanking Him for what He had done. This man was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Didn’t I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” And Jesus said to the man, “Stand up and go. Your faith has healed you.” (Luke 17:15-19 NLT)

Jesus was bothered by their ingratitude. Thanklessness and ingratitude are sadly a common part of our society.

It is easy to forget this attitude and let it slip out of our life. Work at it. Own it and believe how much it means to God when you turn back and thank Him.

• Give thanks today!
• Make a list of blessings and pray through this list.
• Do it every day.
• Today, only pray words of thankfulness. Don’t ask for anything from God
• Take moments today to acknowledge God’s blessing to you.
• Whisper thankfulness to Him all day long. 
• Be thankful to God and others.

Prayer: Dear Lord, may the words of my mouth be full of thankfulness every day of my life. May I truly always be thankful. Amen.

Pastor Wes Humble is Executive Director of Ministry, Community Relations, and Events.