Oh, give thanks to the Lord! Call upon His name; make known His deeds
among the peoples! Psalm 105:1
A little boy said, "Salt is what spoils potatoes when it is left out." Using the
same kind of negative definition, we can say, "Gratitude is what spoils life when it
is left out."
A disposition of continual thankfulness comes from an unshakable confidence in God's
wisdom, power, and goodness no matter what our circumstances may be. People who possess
the quality of gratitude may be poor in this world's goods, but they are truly rich
spiritually.
Some of the most grateful people I know have few material possessions and little money in
their bank accounts. A character in one of Charles Dickens' stories remarks, "My not
knowing at one meal where I shall get the next is a great help to thankfulness."
Riches, on the other hand, may be a handicap. A wealthy woman told her doctor that she was
frustrated by a restless desire to accumulate more and more things. He replied,
"These are the usual symptoms of too much ease in the home and too little gratitude
in the heart."
No matter what your circumstances, count your blessings. Psalm 105 reminds us, "Give
thanks to the Lord! . . . Remember His marvelous works" (vv.1,5). The salt of
gratitude helps to make all of life taste better.
-HVL
Now thank we all our God
With hearts and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things hath done,
In whom His world rejoices.
-Rinkart
A good attitude begins with gratitude to God.