Giving thanks, always!

Early in my catering career, I was taught the importance of adding some salt to just about everything - from porridge to potatoes; from custard to coffee (ground, of course!).  So I was amused to read of a little boy who, it was alleged, stated that "Salt is what always spoils potatoes when it is left out."  Of course, we may use the same sort of negative definition to point out that "Ingratitude is what always spoils life when it is left out."!  A truly thankful spirit enables one to praise God even when circumstances are difficult and unpleasant - a claim that is more than verified by members of the persecuted church!

The famous Scottish preacher, Alexander Whyte (1836-1921), invariably commenced his public prayers with an expression of gratitude.  One particularly cold and rainy day, when the gathered congregation wondered if he could be grateful for the weather, he began by saying: "We thank Thee, O Lord, that it is not always like this"!  An attitude of gratitude can brighten a dreary day, and shorten the longest night.  It's a positive attitude that always sees the glass half-full, and never half-empty.

Such a disposition, characterised by thankfulness comes, I would suggest, from a continuing confidence in Father God's wisdom, power, and goodness.  A person who possesses such a quality may well be poor in material terms, but is truly rich in spiritual things.  Indeed, some of the most appreciative people are those who live in poverty - and, again, I would point to those who live with levels of persecution that we, in the "western world", can barely even imagine.

Paul exhorts: "And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body.  And be thankful." (Colossians 3:15); while the Chronicler affirms: "Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and power and the glory and majesty and the splendour, for everything in heaven and earth is Yours . . . In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.  Now, our God, we give You thanks, and praise Your glorious name." (I Chronicles 29:11-13).

As we approach the celebration of the birth of the Saviour - the greatest Gift in all of history - may each of us, regardless of our situation or circumstances, be filled with thankfulness for all that He has done for us.  When we have an attitude of gratitude, we soon discover that we attract greater good in our lives.  Be grateful for all of the good that the Lord has granted you.  As you read this post, be grateful for the gift of sight and the opportunity you had to learn to read.  Giving thanks to God for all of the many daily blessings in your life – shelter, food, your senses, friends and family – opens your heart to all the good you have, and enables you to appreciate and share your blessings.  Sharing those blessings and being grateful for them brings you closer to God.