I have often heard people speak of having “an attitude of gratitude.” The definition of gratitude is the state of being grateful, thankful. For years, I took for granted many of the blessings and gifts God had bestowed upon me. I failed to be grateful for each one, I lacked “an attitude of gratitude.” I believe my attitude would have been more correctly described as an “I deserve” attitude. You might say, I felt “entitled” to the blessings and gifts I received. It wasn’t until God stripped away all of my “entitled” blessings that I came to see Him as the source of each and everything I enjoyed in this life: a sunny day, the stars at night, rain showers, springtime flowers, fall leaves, a close parking space, laughter, good health, a roof over my head, family, friends, an income, etc. It was through the pain and suffering of my husband’s eleven year battle with MSA, and his subsequent death, that God opened eyes to see that He alone is the source of all I enjoy and
treasure in this life. God and God alone is to receive my thanksgiving. When our youngest daughter, Kelly, was just a little girl, she would always thank me for purchasing an item for her. The store clerks often commented about her grateful spirit. She had “an attitude of gratitude” from a young age. Her thankful spirit and acknowledgement of what I had done for her made my heart happy. God loves a thankful heart. He loves for us to express our appreciation for all He is doing and has done in our lives—big things, small things, pleasant things, and difficult things! Each year on Thanksgiving Day, we pause to thank God for the blessings we have received. It is one day out of the year, but what about the other 364 days? Do you pause each day to observe the gifts and blessings God has bestowed upon you? Do you stop to thank him for rain, sunshine, a full moon, a roof over your head, clean sheets to sleep beneath, a car to drive, food to eat, clean water t drink, family, friends, etc.? God says to, “Give thanks in all circumstances.” God loves an “attitude of gratitude!”

To Him be all our praise and gratitude!
Dianne