A Sunday Thought~Be Grateful for What You Are
A Sunday Thought~Be Grateful for What You Are
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| Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance. ~Elkart T |
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
James 1:17-19
Ever found yourself saying statements like these:
I wish I had her skinny shape. I wish I had her job. I wish I had her life. I wish I could afford her closet. I wish my house was decorated and more updated. O man, it could go on and on. Right?
Researchers say it is part of our American mind set to desire to have more, go further, be happier, and look better than our parents, and especially than our friends and neighbors. While I think that a little friendly rivalry can spur our exercise efforts if we have a workout partner, having a whole lot of envy of others can send us into a backwards spiral.
I believe that one of the best antidotes for statements of comparison is gratitude for what God has given us and for what we are. This past week, I have been really trying to focus on the good qualities God has given to me. I even wrote a list of the qualities God has given me. It was really good for me to focus on that list because when we appreciate our own abilities and the gifts God has given to us, contentment and peace will settle our hearts. The above verse, taken from James, tells us that every good gift comes from above and we should never forget.
My plan is to move my pride aside and focus on the love God has shown to me.
So, whenever I start feeling insignificant or “less than,” I will be writing a list of blessings and gifts God has given to me. When I write these lists those dark clouds of regret will begin to clear and I then will see the light of who I am and what God has graciously given to me.
On days (which has actually been a lot lately) when I feel insignificant, I think about the person I am today and the special relationship I have with Christ. It brings the sun out, so I can see the reflection of a lady who is unique and certain of her personal worth because she is loved by God and complete in Christ.
My prayer:
Lord, you are an amazingly loving and giving God. Thank you for your goodness and your love. Thank you for your changing love!
Going Miles on Sunday Thoughts!!
