WITH A GRATEFUL HEART
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.
Philippians 1:3 NLT
TODAY’S THOUGHT
At first glance one would think that Paul he must have had a wonder experience with the believers in Philippi. This is such a warm opening to Paul’s letter to those in the city of Philippi.
But if you go to Acts 16 you can read the story of what happened to Paul in the city of Philippi. Acts 16 tells us that when he went to Philippi he was illegally arrested, whipped, humiliated, and thrown into prison -- before finally being asked to leave town.
That is not a wonderful start to Paul’s work in the city of Philippi. But Paul chose not to focus on the bad but instead remember the good. I have discovered in life that pleasant memories are a choice.
Daily we choose what we focus on. We choose to focus on the good or the bad. I don’t know of anyone who doesn’t have struggles, disappointments, and frustrations. Some seem to have a lot more negative than they do positive. But we all get to choose what we will focus on.
It takes work and intentionality to force our mind on the positive of life. I believe that Satan works overtime to try to get our focus on the disappointments of life. For most of us there are times when people have hurt us and let us down.
However, we can choose to give God thanks for His blessings and favor on our lives. We can choose to develop an attitude of gratitude instead of having a pity party. We get to choose where we place our focus.
Think back over this past year and make a list of the good things God has done for you. Take time to give God thanks for His forgiveness, direction, and provision in your life. Be specific. Thank Him for moments that were good.
Maybe you could even send an email or text to someone to say thanks to them.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Holy Spirit help me to focus on giving thanks for the good things in my life. Forgive me for complaining. Help me to mature to the point I can focus on the good.
“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”
God has been very good to me this past year. Inspite of the difficulties and disappointments I choose to focus on the goodness of my God.
Thank you Lord for all of your blessings . It’s been such a roller coaster year and despite my sins and short comings Lord you’ve always made a way out of no way and for that I’m truly thankful. I do Not take your love for Granted My Lord . I do want to do a better job of being more intentional in my journey as a Christian. I want To be strict and think of things I’m doing and how they’ll make Jesus feel. Lord please guide me and order my steps.