“I’m so tired.” “I’m bored.” “My job stinks.”
“My spouse just doesn’t get me.” “I wish the preacher wouldn’t talk so long.” Sometimes, it seems that all I hear from people is what is wrong, what is bad, what needs fixed, what is lacking. We are all very quick to complain about this, that and the other thing. Well, I think it is time to stop.
This is the season of year when we celebrate Thanksgiving. It is supposed to be a time for us to reflect on our many blessings and give thanks to God for all he has done and is doing for us. But here is the thing. In this world of
“gotta get more” and “it’s all about me” we are very slow to be thankful, because we are too busy complaining.
Let’s look at things this way: Yes, the economy is still very sluggish, and there are still many many folks out of work.
But, if you have more than 3 changes of clothes in your closet, you are richer that 1/3rd of the world’s population. Yes, our pensions and stock funds are still catching up and a dollar doesn’t go as far as it did a few years ago, but if you eat three meals a day, you are better fed than 1/2 of the world’s children.
If you own at least one Bible, and are free to let it sit on a shelf collecting dust, then you are more blessed than Christians in countries like China, Indonesia and Iraq.
And, if you know Jesus, and have let him have your life, then all the riches of heaven are yours.
It is time to change our tunes folks. It is time to stop complaining about what we think is wrong, or what really is wrong, and really practice thankfulness.
When was the last time you thanked the Lord for clean drinking water?
The people of Haiti are dying for clean water right now.
Thank the Lord for peace within our borders. Your fellow citizens are serving in Afghanistan and Iran, watching our borders and monitoring the skys for you to have that peace.
Thank the Lord for the freedom to read this blog, or go to church, or read whatever book you want. Remember that people are still going to prison and dying for this freedom.
And finally – thank Jesus.
He died for you, even though there is absolutely nothing you can do to repay him, or be deserving of that sacrifice.
And he did it willingly, with a heart full of love.
All because He loves you, no matter what.