thankful
Gratitude
I’ve been away for a year it looks like. Blogging has given my family and friends a way of keeping track of us on our travels. Today, I’m going off course a little and sharing with you what has been on my heart. Today I share about gratitude. Not only for the things and people in our lives. But for what we have in Jesus Christ. Thanks for reading with me today! I’ve been away for a year it looks like. Blogging has given my family and friends a way of keeping track of us on our travels. Today, I’m going off course a little and sharing with you what has been on my heart. Today I share about gratitude. Not only for the things and people in our lives. But for what we have in Jesus Christ. Thanks for reading with me today!
There have been a few friends who have talked to me about being grateful; showing gratitude lately. I’m learning that this is an attitude that I need to “put on” and show with actions and words.
Gratitude means having the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.There are many ways in which a person can express gratitude. We can be grateful for our housing, clothes, and the things that make up our lives. Yet, for the God fearing person, there are those things like God’s mercy, grace, love – the list can go on forever! God is that good to us.
Yet, I remember a verse about how God wants us to go into the deep things of God. (1 Corinthians 2:19) I want to encourage you to go past those things the eye and heart can feel and think on who and what our God is and be grateful!.
I had a very weird thing happen last week. Dale and I were going out to lunch and the minute I step out of the vehicle a young man was standing there asking for money. Unfortunately, I didn’t have any money on me and told him so. He gave me a look and I walked away, into the café. His eyes followed me as he went back to his buddies and car. He was getting gas.
We ordered lunch, found a table and I then went to use the restroom. As I was in there, someone came in. Thinking they had to go also, I didn’t pay much attention. However, they turned on the water in the sink. Okay, that’s normal.
But the longer I was in there, the longer the water in the sink poured out. I was beginning to think this was not normal. As I rounded the stalls, I say a figure standing there, head down, wearing all black and the upper body was shrouded with a black hoodie. I could not tell if this was a man or a woman. My antenna went up and I headed out the door, not washing my hands. (Thank goodness for sani-wipes I carry!) I was creeped out!
I did not see who was in the bathroom, but, I don’t know, have you ever wondered if you were safe in one of these public restrooms? I do!
Upon later thought, it came to me how much gratitude I have for God’s protection over us, His children. In the bible, He tells us that He puts a hedge around us. (Job 1:10)
I remember another time, as a young girl in a big city,walking home from the bus depot. I heard footsteps behind me as I walked. Now that’s enough to give one goosebumps. When I stopped at the corner this man stopped also and asked me if he could carry my suitcase. I thanked him and said I was fine and crossed the street. He did not follow. Later I thought of all kinds of “bad” ways that could have ended. I felt that my angle had stopped that guy in his tracks to protect me.
I am sure we all have experiences where we can see God’s protection about us. I also know that there are many times He protects us and we don’t even know it. Let us show gratitude today for that protection.
Father God, I am so very grateful for my salvation in Jesus Christ. Your mercy and grace brought me to faith in You and eternal life. Father, today, I say “thank you so very much for the protection You put around your children.” I thank you when I pray for Your protection around my children and grandchildren. I am so full of gratitude for this love that is so faithful that comes from You. In Jesus name, Amen
Let us show God and others in our life our gratitude for what they do for us! Be intentional with your actions and your words.
Life is Good. God is amazing.
*graphics from Google images
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