Do everything without COMPLAINING or arguing, so that you may become
blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved
generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the
word of life…. Philippians 2:14-16
Living in this generation, it can be easy to forget how blessed we are. We can easily take for granted all of our “stuff”….homes, cars, electronics, washing machines and dishwashers, even the necessities of life- food, clothing, and shelter. Sometimes we can be so “me-centered” and focused on our WANTS and DESIRES that we forget to stop and consider how generous God has been to us. In our accumulation of STUFF, we can lose sight of the “simple,” but most important things- times spent with our family, the leaves turning beautiful fall colors, the sound of an owl hooting, hugs from our little ones, and even the cold, wet nose of a dog nuzzling up to us for attention.
I DON’T want to be me-centered! How I long to have an “attitude of gratitude.” But, I sometimes see the opposite- a spirit of complaining– rear its ugly head.
I love the verse from Philippians. It reminds us that we are living in crooked and depraved generation which is me-centered and selfish. But, if we are to SHINE God’s light, then we are to be different. I love how verse 16 says “as you hold out the word of life.” Because Jesus is the Word as well, I am reminded that I am holding out JESUS to this depraved world.
But how? Verse 14 says, “WHEN I do everything (notice EVERY-thing, even unpleasant things), without COMPLAINING OR ARGUING,” THEN I become blameless and pure, shining the Light of Jesus.
Well, I know what NOT to do, so what DO I do?
Praise my wonderful God.
All it takes is a short trip through Psalms to exult our Lord. I read over and over “Praise the Lord.” Praise Him for His majesty….His amazing creation. Praise Him for His mercy and His generosity. Praise Him for Who He is.
Count my blessings one by one.
I need to thank God for all He is given me. When I focus on all I HAVE, it is hard to regret anything I don’t.
Take time to remember all the Lord has done for YOU.
This Thanksgiving, take time to remember all you have to be thankful for- family, friends, the love of God and the sacrifice of Jesus. Strive to have an ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE and a thankful heart.
Lord, You are awesome and glorious. I do thank You for all You have given me. I repent of any complaining. Thank You, God. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.
I pray you and your family have a BLESSED Thanksgiving!
I would love to see you at my personal blog!
Amen, be blessed sweetie.
An Attitude of Gratitude is just not a once a year thing, so many people forget that it is a daily choice. I choose today to reflect on all the good mercies of my Heavenly Father! Thanks for the reminder today. -blessings.