Tag Archives: Gratitude

“One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.” Luke 17:15-16

Gratitude cannot keep quiet. Like a giddy fan at their favorite sporting event—emotions explode in cheers over a well-executed play. Heart felt thanksgiving has to escape and express itself to those who contributed to this cause for joy. If verbal gratitude is withheld then those who remain silent miss out on bringing public praise to God. Ultimately, Jesus is behind every good gift, and many times He uses His people in the process of a blessing. 

An outcast of society becomes an insider with God through thoughtful and verbal thanksgiving to Him. Do you still exhibit a humble attitude of gratitude or have you graduated beyond gratefulness? In fact, the more you grow in the grace of God, the more thankful you become. You show up and speak up with thanksgiving. At work you thank your team leader for employment and trust God with opportunities for advancement.

“We have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and your foresight has brought about reforms in this nation. Everywhere and in every way, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with profound gratitude.” Acts 24:2-3

It is easy to get caught up in busy living and forget to thank those who gave us a chance to develop our gifts for God’s glory. Has your Pastor heard from you since you went off to school and applied his teachings to your life and relationships? Have you gone back and blessed the teacher/mentor who inspired your career? When was the last time you looked your parents in the eyes and explained how their example of consistent character caused you to follow hard after Christ? True thanksgiving takes time to say thank you!

Furthermore, it is praise and thanksgiving to God that is the pinnacle of gratitude. Your gratitude to God generates generosity and bubbles up joy in your heart. Your marriage of humility and thanksgiving invites a dinner reception that feasts on contentment, peace, hope, happiness and security. Open wide your mouth with words of thanksgiving and watch the Lord do wonderful works around you. Gratitude speaks up to its Savior!

“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” Colossians 3:16

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for healing my heart and giving me Your joy.

Related Readings: Psalm 147:7; Jonah 2:9; Romans 16:4; Colossians 4:2

Post/Tweet this today: Wisdom exhibits a humble attitude of gratitude and never graduates beyond gratefulness. #gratitude

© 2012 by Boyd Bailey. All rights reserved.

Wisdom Hunters Resources
A registered 501 c3 ministry
info@mail.wisdomhuntersdevotional.com
www.wisdomhunters.com

“Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him.” Acts 8:2

When a life has been well spent and invested in the Kingdom of God, admirers show up to pay honor at their home-going to heaven. The godly show up to honor the death of the godly. It is gratitude to God that compels Christ followers to attend the funeral of another faithful brother or sister in the faith. Mourning comforts the one suffering loss and shows appreciation for the loved one’s life. Gratitude shows up to empathize with a shaky soul. 

If we are grateful for someone we show up for the important milestones in their lives. Graduations, school plays, art lessons, surgery, sonograms, athletic events, dance recitals, grandparent’s day, an open house, retirement, or a friend’s big birthday are all events to attend and express support and gratitude. Attendance communicates appreciation. Our body may be weary, but our spirit compels us to be there for those who need us to care.

“So we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.” 1 Thessalonians

Gratitude honors your parents. What makes them feel appreciated? Perhaps a handwritten note or a typed letter reflecting how they have blessed you over the years with their love and support— especially during the trying times in your teen years. You can celebrate their wedding anniversary with a surprise destination event they wouldn’t plan for themselves. So, be creative in communicating gratitude to your dad and mom.

Furthermore, show up in gratitude for those activities that are near and dear to the heart of your heavenly Father. Church, praise and worship, bible study, missions, community service, loving a dying neighbor and giving hilariously towards heaven’s heart. You are motivated by appreciation because of the Lord’s great love toward you. You can’t out give Christ, but you can express your gratitude to Him by showing up on His behalf!

“She is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the Lord’s people, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds.” 1 Timothy 5:10

Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me gratitude and gumption to show up for You.

Related Readings: Isaiah 30:18; Luke 18:1; 2 Corinthians 12:15; 1 John 3:16

Post/Tweet this today: Gratitude for someone shows up for the important milestones in their lives. Attendance shows appreciation. #appreciate

© 2012 by Boyd Bailey. All rights reserved.

Wisdom Hunters Resources
A registered 501 c3 ministry
info@mail.wisdomhuntersdevotional.com
www.wisdomhunters.com