Blessed and Don't Know It? Pt. II

Excuse me-- the complaint department starts in the back. Way back. Get back-Satan. The whole idea of complaining is annoying. Yet I have found myself many times in the complaint line- a steady stream of other complainers lined up with me. What I want to focus on in todays blog is the process of cultivating a thankful heart. Put another way, a heart FULL of thanks. How appropriate to mention as we are now only days away from recognizing "Thanksgiving" as an official holiday.

So how do we cultivate a thankful heart- and carry it beyond turkey, shopping, family and football?

First, focus on what you have and NOT what you don't have. We live in a culture that specializes in creating need- consumer-based me'ism. Reminds me of the seagulls in "Finding Nemo"- Mine, mine, mine, mine!! A heart full of contentment does not focus on what you don't have.

Second, recognize who is the giver- seek the giver not the gift. God is the source of all our blessings, provisions and stuff. Remember He gave you a sound mind and/or a good back to earn the income to get the stuff to begin with. Acknowledge and thank the Lord regularly.

Third, when it comes to a thankful heart and being blessed- pay it forward. Let it be contagious. Practice acts of kindness. It is better to give than to receive. Make it your ambition to be a blessing to others around you daily!

I am going to try to make it through the day without complaining. How bout' you. After all- we are blessed and may not know it. Boycott the complaint line and make it a great day!