Gratitude overflows in the heart of a thankful person. We have so many things to be glad for it ought to cause us to rejoice daily. I’ve come to realize no matter what trial I’m facing, if gratitude overflows in my heart above all else, I can press forward to find the fullness of life. Things I don’t take for granted such as, a friendship restored, or relaxing in the comfort of my home and my refrigerator full of good things to eat, are counted blessings. I am mostly appreciative of the ability to worship my Lord, without restraint. Sometimes it’s the simple things in life that make a heart full of gratitude. I like Zig Ziglar’s quote:
“Among the things you can give and still keep are your word, a smile, and a grateful heart.” (1)
I agree with Zig! Integrity is proven in your word, a smile lifts the spirit and a grateful heart is a simple token which can brighten any day. The best part is, we can share these virtues with others. Perhaps by refreshing another it can completely turn the course of their day. Or at least it could be the highlight. Along with a heart of gratitude comes choosing a proper attitude. Charles Swindoll’s appropriate view on a correct attitude is inspiring:
“The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, gifts, or skill. It will make or break a company…a church…a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past…we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude…I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you…we are in charge of our attitudes (2).”
The principle is: Attitude will determine your future…your future will reflect on how you react to life’s circumstances. I’ve found that attitude is everything. I have on my refrigerator three tiles that say, “Live with Gratitude”. It serves as a daily reminder to start my day with a grateful heart, and to be thankful for all I have been given.
Gratitude speaks loud and leaves a sweet fragrance with it!
We see in God’s love the sweet fragrance of gratitude. His love makes my heart swell so big. Everyday is a day to burst out in joyful singing. God’s love is like no other, He extends kindness to everyone. Out of His gracious nature He’s given life; every breath we take is a gift. Every moment of existence is a blessing from above – sent from a compassionate Father, Who loves YOU! God gives abundantly life and breath, but also He extends salvation, grace, goodness, kindness, forgiveness, and mercy…the lists goes on and on, too numerous to count. We have so many things to embrace, enjoy, and appreciate! The influences of God’s gracious gifts motivate a personal desire to know the affections of such great love – where He bids us to come to Him!
Gracious Lord, I seek and desire to experience the passions of such wondrous love. I come today thirsty to know You more. Open my heart and let me see Your glory. Hold my affections and cause my heart to fall deeply in love with You. Amen.
Footnotes:
1. http://www.thequotefactory.com/quote-by/zig-ziglar/among-the-things-you-can- give/55385
2. http://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/5139.Charles_R_Swindoll
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