The ability for a person to recognize and appreciate their blessings, the higher their level of gratitude is likely to be. Their level of gratitude often acts as a blueprint for their attitude. When a person stays focused on what is positive in their lives, there is little time, space, or tolerance for negativity.
Society has programmed people to value what is considered to be large scale living as 'favored' blessings. You know,,, new car, new home, substantial pay increase, to name a few. Sadly, people are prone to view those who don't have these things, or place little importance on the same things, as lazy and 'without favor'. How easy it is to forget the scriptures regarding the rich and poor. It is so easy for some to look over the actual importance of the blessings that are often taken for granted or even worse, seen as something we are entitled to. You know,,,, health, healthy children, food, shelter,,you know,,,, the 'simple' things in life.
There are also those who honestly feel that whatever they have acquired or accomplished is due totally on their hard work. They believe that it is something they alone have done that provides them with 'favor'. How many people are really concerned about the origin of the 'trappings of their life?? Many look over the fact that it is God who plants the seeds of our dreams. It is God who gives us the desire and determination and,,,intellect to work hard to find our purpose through our gifts and dreams. It is His love and guidance that pave the way as we travel our journey of life. God is the source of our strength. It is all about Him,,,,not us.
It was inevitable that when it became acceptable for a church,,any church,, to be labeled as a business, the focus would soon shift to the importance of 'prosperity' and accumulating wealth. So now,,,, we have those who feel that because they live better, they are better Christians. God wants what is best for His children. He wants us to have our true hearts desire;. desires that will glorify Him.
Perhaps we should take the time to examine what we might 'think' we desire, and why.
Who will it really glorify?
The first time I saw an ad in a Christian periodical that focused on 'the professional',,after I closed my mouth from surprise,,, I had to laugh. What,,, 'more favor', and a more intellectual interpretation of God's word? Really???
When Jesus returns, I honestly do not believe that He will first make His presence known to the more affluent zip codes...
Gratitude is the direct result of a humble spirit who seeks to display their 'light within' in the form of a positive and loving attitude.
We must each ask ourselves if the challenge is worth the effort.
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