In our society, it is sometimes a challenge to keep thankfulness at the center of our lives. We are not often encouraged to be thankful. Instead, we are surrounded by advertisements that tell us that we don’t have enough! There is always a better car to buy, the latest fashions to wear, a bigger house to live in, more money to make, etc. We can lose sight of being thankful when we are busy trying to keep up with what others say we need.

However, thankfulness cannot be bought. Thankfulness is an attitude of the heart. It is constantly fighting against greed, jealousy, and the desire for more, which try to sneak in and take place in our hearts. Instead of being focused on what we don’t have, thankfulness sees everything in our life as gifts and undeserved blessings from God. These gifts can be found everywhere: in people, in nature, in the experiences we have, in the words of encouragement from a friend, a telephone call. There is much to be thankful for.  

When thankfulness is at the center of our lives, we find that God has already given us everything we need!

Suggested prayer: Dear God, from the moment I open my eyes in the morning to the moment I go to sleep at night, you fill my life with gifts. The support from my spouse, hugs from my kids, kindness from a stranger, a smile from a neighbor, the warmth of the sun… each is a blessing from you, and I am truly thankful. May all the negativity in my heart be replaced with an attitude of thankfulness for all that you have already done in my life. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1. Colossians 3:12,15 (NLT).