It’s the most wonderful time of the year! So begins a popular Christmas classic. Indeed, Christmas time is a wonderful time. It’s when we gather with friends and family to break bread and celebrate. For us Christians, we celebrate the miraculous birth of our Lord and saviour, Jesus, the light of the world who rescued us from sin and darkness.
In addition to the festivities, we often hear many wonderful messages at this time of year. These messages, whether about the miraculous birth, the manger, the shepherds, the magi, the stars, all make up the beautiful Christmas story that we know and love. However, one message that I would like to highlight especially during this season is that of gratitude. Gratitude is a word that we often hear thrown around; we even looked at what gratitude looks like in an earlier post.
What is Gratitude and Why is it Important?
According to the oxford dictionary, gratitude is “showing an appreciation of kindness.” Based on this definition, gratitude is not merely a feeling but a state of being. Similarly, scripture exhorts us to always practice gratitude.
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
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Gratitude is a God honoring attitude and it blesses us as well. The more we practice gratitude is the more we notice things to be grateful for. Additionally, many studies over the past decade have shown that grateful people tend to be happier and less depressed. As believers we get to reap both the spiritual and health benefits of practicing gratitude. Sadly, however, ingratitude is an integral part of society. It’s even sadder that many believers are ungrateful.
The Dangers of Ingratitude
As believers we have the most to be thankful for. We’ve been given the greatest gift; the gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus (Romans 6:23). Still, sometimes we allow the cares of this world to overwhelm and bring out the ingratitude in us. Sadly, misery has a way of obscuring blessings.
Even so, ingratitude is a dangerous sin that we ought to be careful not to fall into. If we fail to be grateful for all that God has done for us, we might miss the signs, miracles and wonders that he is doing in our lives right now. Ingratitude is also hurtful. If you’ve ever done something for someone and not received something as simple as a thanks then you might understand a little of what Jesus must have felt after healing the ten lepers in Luke 17:11-19. The bible recounts that Jesus, on his way to Jerusalem, heals 10 lepers but only one returned to give thanks.
Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Luke 17:17-18
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Gratitude Adjustment
Never forget where God has brought you from. If the life you’re living now (despite the challenges you may be facing) used to be the prayers you prayed, remain grateful. Gratitude is such a powerful thing that it can shift your whole perspective. Gratitude can change your mood and most importantly, gratitude to God takes the focus off what may not be going right to where it belongs, which is on God.
Ingratitude is the easy choice; gratitude needs to be cultivated but choose gratitude. Not only does our gratitude honour God but we benefit from it as well.
My hope and prayer for anyone reading this is that you would take time out this season and beyond to acknowledge and give thanks to God for all he has done. He is more than worthy of our thanks. As we celebrate this special time with family and friends, may we not forget the reason for the season and may it inspire an attitude of gratitude in us all.
