A Time for Gratitude

Thank You, Dankeschon, Arigato, Asante, Dêkuji, Do Jeh, Dziekuje, Efharisto, Gracias, Grazie, Istutiy, Kamsa Hamnida, Kawp-kun Krap/ka’, Kiitos, Merci, Obrigado, Salamat Po, Spasibo, Sukria, Ta, Tack, Tak, Takk, Terima Kasih, Tesekkür Ederim, Toda, Xie Xie
Krista Dunk

As it says in Colossians 3, we are to put on certain virtues. I believe gratitude is also something we should intentionally put on and practice. Just like the clothes we pick out each morning, matching them up to the activities and destinations of our day, we select virtues to wear.

Gratitude Looks Beautiful on Everyone

However true that may be, sometimes it is easier said than done. There are times, at least in my own life, when blessings can feel burdensome. We need to be cautious we aren’t allowing that mindset to stay; otherwise we will be putting on heaviness rather than thankfulness. Whatever the reasons may be for frustrations and frayed emotions, there is a refreshing perspective that we can adopt in these situations. For example:

• If we feel exhausted after a long day at the office, remember to thank God for having a job.

• When the prices are high at the gas pump, we can be grateful we have a car and places to freely travel to.

• When dirty dishes are piled high in the sink, be thankful there was plenty of meals to eat.

• When the alarm clock turns on (what seems like) too early, let’s feel gratitude to have awoken to another day.

• If we get a bad report at the doctor’s office, we know that the doctors don’t have the final say.

• If someone gossips about you, be thankful you have ears to hear the many good things people say about you.

• When kids behave badly, we can feel grateful they are ours, knowing God feels the same way about us.