In life, many things were not created to coexist. For example: Freedom and unforgiveness are a bad combination, kingdom life and ingratitude are not a mixture that goes well with God's precepts.

Why? Because for many of us, being grateful doesn't come naturally. It is certainly not a predetermined response, but something that needs to be cultivated and developed in our daily walk with God.

Complaining is all too easy, and so is self-pity. Denying and murmuring to overcome problems may be therapeutic in the moment, but it doesn't fit well with God's command in today's passage to give thanks in every situation.

God has given each of us many blessings, but these blessings and gifts alone are not enough to provide us with lasting joy. These gifts must be combined with our gratitude. In fact, if blessing doesn't turn into praise on our lips, it could turn into pride in our hearts.

Gratitude is not just a feeling, but a practice. It should be cultivated daily until it becomes a lifestyle.

Gratitude attracts God's blessing and will always result in rare blessings being experienced.

What blessings could we have missed simply because we take things for granted and don't celebrate in praise all that God has done for us and given us?

Gratitude is a small thing that can make a difference in our lives. Gratitude that is not intentionally expressed is like a gift that is wrapped but not given.

Decide to verbalize your thanks and share how good God has been to you! Everything in our Christian walk begins with thankfulness, which is why Paul instructs us to be thankful in everything. God's heart will always be drawn by our acknowledgment of Him.

We will be regarded as a blessing to the extent that we consider ourselves blessed. As you feel the fullness of your pitcher, you will then be able to pour yourself out to others.

At the beginning of a new year, when we find ourselves in a world that lacks joy and a deep sense of contentment, we must show, through our way of life, that being happy is not what makes you grateful. On the contrary, being grateful is what makes you happy. So let us resolve this year to rejoice, pray continually, and be thankful in all circumstances.

Suggested Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for your faithfulness. You are my Lord and Savior. I want to be more and more aware of your goodness and mercy in my life. Help me to be an example of gratitude and of the deep joy and peace you give me. I pray in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.

1.    1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NVI).

Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.