It’s no secret that being human is hard. Yes, life holds wonderful moments, even blissful ones! But we live in a world not fully redeemed yet, and until that is fully accomplished, we all have moments of disappointment and grief.
It’s easy to be grateful when everything is going our way. But how do we keep from getting angry or bitter when we don’t get our way, our plans are outright ruined, or something really devastating happens?
Cultivating a habit of gratitude is the key. When King David was sad, he spoke to himself like this in Psalm 42:11 …
Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again — my Savior and my God!
Notice that David doesn’t deny how he feels. He acknowledges his emotions as legitimate, and then he directs his attention to God who is the only one who can take care of everything we need and lift us up.
If we do more than a quick “thanks for the food” prayer at mealtime and really stop to look for what is good and the ways that God is with us in the hard times, our spiritual muscles of faith get stronger. Then, when we really need it, our default response will be gratitude.
That habitual response brings joy that often doesn’t make sense but is real. And that joy is proof there is more than the here and now, Jesus is at work, He loves us, and we are safe with Him.
There is a future waiting for us when we will never be disappointed again, when death won’t ever rob us of the people we love, and when our deepest heart desires will be satisfied.
With that kind of hope – Jesus’ presence now and forever – we have everything to be grateful for. Let’s take hold of His promises with thanksgiving and praise.
START TODAY: Invite a friend to join you in building a habit of gratitude so you can encourage each other to keep going. And don’t be discouraged if you miss a day or two, or even more. Just start again. It will be worth it!
PRAY: Dear Jesus, I want to have joy and not be bitter about the tough patches in my life. Help me be consistent in thanking and praising You no matter what. I need Your help to rejoice always and give thanks in all circumstances. Thank You that I can count on You for that. In Your Name, Amen.
ACTION: Share the secret habit that brings joy with your listening family at KCIS by giving to the Grateful Fall Pledge Drive today.
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