[390 words]
We have so much for which to be thankful! Every single day our Might God blesses us with numerous good things. As those who have been blessed, we have a responsibility to Our Lord to show Him gratitude. In fact, Jesus actually expects us to say “thanks” when He blesses (Luke 17:17).
With this in mind, let us consider the fact that there is a proper way to say “thanks.” Someone else shared this acrostic years ago and I would like to share it with you.]
Thankfulness involves…
Thoughtfulness—We need to give some real time and consideration to the various way in which we’ve been blessed. We must not take things for granted! Such is like the swine who eats the apples that have fallen to the ground without ever looking up to the tree from which they fell. Think about how richly you’ve been blessed. Be thoughtful and thankful. (James 1:17; Ps. 105:1-5).
Happiness—We can be happy with what we have—what we do-all because we know, love, trust and obey the Almighty God! Happy is that people whose God is the Lord (Ps. 44:15).
Appreciation—When you tell someone, “I appreciate you,” you are telling them, “I highly value you.” What value do you give your life? Your family? Your church family? (cf. Col 2:7; 3:15).
Notification—If you are thankful…tell someone! Make it known! Don’t keep it to yourself. Make it clear to the person that blessed your life that you know that said blessing came from them. Paul made a habit of telling people he was thankful for them and for what they had done on his behalf (Phil. 1:3; 4:10; Philemon 1:4; cf Rom 16:3-4; Eph. 5:20; et. al).
Kindness—Simple kindness shown to others is a demonstration that you are thankful for the things/people that have found their way into your life. Remember the example of David in 2 Samuel 9:1.
Sacrifice—The Macedonians were so thankful for their spiritual blessings they were willing to sacrifice physically and financially (2 Cor. 8:5). Our God asks that we live each day as though we are thankful for His mercy. (Rom. 12:1-2).
Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift! (2 Cor. 9:15).
Bart Warren
Glasgow, KY