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In 2020 we have seen a global pandemic, racism, protest, hoarding, depression, unrest, and accusations. Even our election process has been full of anxiety. So, why should I give thanks, when 2020 has been such a ‘crappy’ year?
Because:
A heart of gratitude will change my attitude.
When I focus on the negatives, my approach will be negative. When I focus on the positives, I naturally become more positive. No matter how difficult life becomes, I can find something for which to be grateful.
One practical way to accomplish this is an intentional habit of identifying three new gifts each day. Voice them out loud or write them down, but peg three reasons daily to give thanks.
This idea is from Ann VosKamp’s book entitled A Thousand Gifts. (Here is the link.) It was and is a game-changer for me. I want to live with a grateful heart. I want to become better in life, not bitter by life. Honestly, this is rewarding for me, as well as the people around me.
“What men meant for evil, God meant for good.” Genesis 50:20 (ESV)
I (still) believe that God is God, and He is good at being God, so I will choose to trust Him. When I do not understand his hand, I trust His heart. Do you remember the story of Joseph? (Genesis 37-50) If anyone had a reason to complain, it was Joseph. He was betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, lied about, thrown into prison, shamed, and forgotten. But God . . . God rescued him and placed him in a position of power and honor.
Joseph lived with faith, learned to forgive others, and was used to save the lives of thousands. A key verse in Exodus 50 reads, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” Joseph is a role model for us to learn from in our own life.
Friends, though living in a society filled with anxiety, we can have a joyful spirit. Let’s learn together because a heart of gratitude will change your attitude and we know what men meant for evil, God meant for good.
Let’s become better in life, not bitter by life. Do it, because it will change you. Do it, because your attitude will influence others.
Love ya Ladies!