I know that I have posted on this topic before – but I am reminded again of the importance of gratefulness.
After such an intense week with the passing of Chris’ father – Chris & I are reminded that we have so much to be thankful for. These next few days, we will be taking some time to express our appreciation to all of those who have stood by us during our time of need.
1. Thank you Jesus that you are our sustainance & our strengh – our ever present help. 1 Corinthians 5:16-18: Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
2. Thank you Jesus for the cross – that you have defeated sin & death. The grave has no hold on us because you have given us the gift of eternal life! 1 Corinthians 15:57: But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
3. Thank you for friends & family in Christ. Our commitment & appreciation for those closest to us has grown through this whole experience because you are continually binding us together in love. 2 Thessalonians 1:3: We ought always to thank God for you, brothers, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love every one of you has for each other is increasing.
What is the fruit of being a grateful person? Here are some immediate benefits:
1. Our confession changes – we begin to focus on & speak of the positive instead of the negative. We become a much more enjoyable person to be around.
2. Our emotions are aligned – depression is overcome with gratefulness & joy & peace overtake anger & defeat.
3. Our faith is strengthened – it takes courage & faith to worship even when our circumstances aren’t ideal.
4. Our God is pleased – God loves it when we take the time to stop & say “thanks”.
Iris - Chris & Kate Griffin 