Articles / Class Lessons
“Seven Ways to be More Thankful”
What is the secret to thankfulness?
I think the key to thankfulness is contentment. Paul wrote,
“Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
(Philippians 4.11–13)
How can we learn to be content? This week, I came across some of these thoughts, expressed by Ron Edmondson.
Here are 7 way to be more thankful:
Consider what you could NOT have that you have now – Don’t forget your toothbrush, your socks, and clean drinking water!
Don’t compare yourself to those who have more than you have – Compare yourself to those who have less than you have. That gives you a proper perspective.
Count your blessings, name them one by one – Make a list of things you are thankful for…your family, your friends, your health, your church, your shelter…your clothes…keep it going as long as you can. Then keep it where you can find it easily. (You’ll need it again.)
Review God’s promises – They are many…and they are good!
Get an eternal perspective – Step back from the current and think of your life in view of eternity. Looks pretty good, huh?
Practice giving – It’s amazing what joy comes from being sacrificial.
Practicing thinking small – Look for a smile, a lady bug, a gentle breeze…the beating of your heart. (Little things count for big if you look for them.)
As you put these things into perspective, you can learn what it means to be content and become more thankful.
How has God blessed you?
