Locations & Times

Gratitude shouldn’t be limited to an annual holiday gathering with family and friends, it should be a daily mindset that focuses on the goodness of God.

The Israelites struggled with ingratitude. Even after God had sent His messenger, Moses, to set them free from slavery in Egypt, and even though God brought them through the Red Sea and provided them with daily food and provision … they forgot His goodness. They complained every step of their 40-year journey.

Our ingratitude may not seem as severe as theirs. After all, we’re not making idols of gold or accusing God of rescuing us only to kill us. But we might be missing His blessings just the same because we’d rather have what we want rather than what He gives.

We might mention to God about a new job promotion and be angry for not giving it to us, or we might beg God to save the life of a loved one … and they don’t make it. 

God wants us to look at our current situation and find the hope He’s giving us. For example, why not thank God that you have a job and ask Him to give you peace to wait on His timing for a promotion. Or thank God for the great memories you have of shared times with your loved one—memories you can look back on and find healing for your wounded heart. 

Let’s take a note from Paul. He went to prison several times for preaching the gospel. During his times in prison, he wrote letters to the churches; in these letters he wrote about being content in every situation, good or bad. Whether he was in prison or not, Paul was at peace. Even though unsure about what would happen to him, still Paul wrote: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).

Paul wasn’t happy about being in prison, but he was thankful that God kept him alive to share the word. Gratitude isn't about seeing the glass half full but being thankful we have a glass in the first place.

Gratitude reminds us of what God has done and makes our outlook on life in line with what God can do.

Shifting your mindset takes time and practice. You can start with stating three things you are thankful for before going to bed or getting a gratitude journal to write them down. Every day is an opportunity to exercise the muscle of gratitude.

Perhaps you feel that your present is too hard to look at. But I am asking you to take another look … What could you be grateful for that might have been covered in the dust of hardship? With one look, you can start to uncover God’s goodness in a new way.

If this encouraged you, check out more articles from our Flatirons Spiritual Formation Team for practical tools, encouragement, and ways to grow in your faith and leadership. Click here.