I recently purchased a pretty, pink gratitude journal with a cool set-up which included
the top three things I was grateful for, what I accept and what I release. The release
part is important because, when I feel something is unfair, I tend to hold onto it, and my
gratitude meter goes down, and my negativity meter goes way up. It is easy to give
thanks when a prayer has been answered but what about when we have a medical or
financial set-back or have a big miscommunication with a loved one? Then, there are all
the little things like having a flat tire, getting the wrong take-out order or losing our
wallet. The little things can really add up and leave us frustrated and negative which
affects us and everyone around us. The enemy loves that because we take our focus off
what the Lord has for us and wallow in the quicksand of self-pity and frustration.
Psalms 9:1 says I will give thanks to you Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all Your
wonderful deeds. We really show others “Jesus in us” when we shine with the light of
gratitude. I noticed a homeless person on the sidewalk the other day as I was delayed in
a construction zone. I felt the Holy Spirit inviting me to pray for them which I did. I
likely would not have noticed them if not for the delay. What about all the times we must
wait for appointments or while in drive through lines or for our kids to get out of school
or activities? We can spend that time with the Lord and praying for people around us.
Praying for their salvation, that their needs are met or whatever the Holy Spirit
impresses upon us. We have the opportunity to spend time with the Lord while waiting
or mope, it is our choice. I find when I write down what I am thankful for each day, I
look for more opportunities to be grateful. I stop and smell the roses and look for God in
my circumstances and my day, for what He is doing and saying to me. This will turn any
frown upside down!
I have ready several studies on gratitude which invites us to write down 3 things we are
grateful for each day for 21 days. I like he release part that I mentioned earlier that is in
my journal because it is a reminder there are many things beyond our control, but we
serve a sovereign God who can work all things out for our benefit. Romans 8:28 says
“and we know in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have
been called according to His purpose.” The enemy can’t stand to be around hearts that
give thanks and honor to God in all things, big and small. What little things are you
grateful for today? I can’t wait to see what God is doing even in the “waiting”!
