What is gratitude? It is the quality of being thankful, showing appreciation for something and to return kindness.  Yet it is so much more.  It is a deep heartfelt appreciation for the goodness in life, recognizing that positive things come from outside us, whether people, nature, or God. This is accomplished by acknowledging and cherishing things you have received.  As you do this, gratitude becomes a part of our lives, it is not just saying “thank you” but a shift in perspective that sees life as a gift, and finding wonder in every day situations, and appreciating the many blessings there are in life, even in the midst of challenges life might bring.

           Today, let us find as many things as possible we can to be grateful for and thankful for.  Such as I am thankful for my husband, my children, my step-children, my daughters-in-laws, my son-in-law, my grandchildren, my great-grandchildren, my siblings, my in laws, my friends, the house I live in, the clothes I wear, the food I eat, my health, my God and the opportunity to serve Him in all that I do. Let us make this a habit.  Let us focus on the good and the many things God has done for us.  

           1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”  Psalm 107:1 reads, “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, his steadfast love endures forever.”  Psalm 100:5 tells us, “…give thanks to him and praise his name.  For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.”  

           Gratitude!  Let us have a grateful heart.  God Bless. Amen.

denise