Benefits of being Thankful

Last week I talked about the power of Thanksgiving. The value of being a thankful person cannot be over stated. I want to briefing state some benefits of being thankful. First, being thankful helps us to keep the right perspective on the things of life. If we are not careful the things of life can become more important then they ought to be and with a thankful heart it helps us to appreciate what we have and not take things for granted. Second, being thankful helps us to more pleasant to being around. No one like a grumpy person with poor manners. There is still great value in saying please and thank you. Third, being thankful helps keep us level headed when life takes one of those unexpected turns. Unpleasant things can happen to anyone at anytime. This is an aspect of life we do not allows understand and one that is difficult to deal with but when you are thankful it keeps us focusing on the right things. Fourth, being thankful is an indication that we are growing as a follower of Jesus Christ. I Thessalonians 5:16-18 "Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." The encouragement here by the apostle Paul is for all believers facing all kinds of different circumstances. Either we are going to trust God or we are going to trust in our own ability to handle the tough times. I will trust God and be thankful regardless of whether or not I understand because I know that it is He who directs my steps and who can meet each and every one of my needs. Being thankful is a choose and is not based upon our present situation. Therefore I choose today to be thankful.
May of light of Jesus be with you.

Pastor John