Keeping It Fresh!

Some people seem to be completely soured on life. Certainly some of life's experiences are challenging to say the least. However, there are many good life experiences as well. We could easily list on paper many of the things we might dislike about life, but could we not also come up with a long list of the things associated with the blessed side? The problem with some people is they have chosen to focus on the wrong list. Someone has stated, "Ingratitude curdles the milk of human kindness." [source: "1600 Squibs And Quips, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

There are many who seem to take the kindnesses of others for granted. Perhaps they feel such is owed them. When this is the perception, not only can it sour the giving spirit within those individuals, but it can also sour the giving spirit of those who have been the givers within families, within society at large, and also within the church. Still, ultimately we must not forget the GRATITUDE that should be properly and regularly directed toward God.

As Paul urged the church at Corinth to follow through in the help they had promised to provide for others, we read. . .
"(11) You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us WILL PRODUCE THANKSGIVING TO GOD. (12) For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also OVERFLOWING IN MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD." ( 2 Corinthians 9:11-12 ESV)

The most appropriate response is to THANK GOD on either side of the picture here. To be the recipient one ought to THANK GOD. To be the giver, one ought to THANK GOD for being in the blessed position to give.

Paul urged those at Ephesus toward. . .
"(20) GIVING THANKS ALWAYS AND FOR EVERYTHING TO GOD the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ," ( Ephesians 5:20 ESV)

When we continue to focus on that for which we should be THANKFUL, oh how sweet the outlook on life becomes. Let us continually bear in mind how the key to life's outlook is through maintaining a proper up-look toward God. May the spirit of THANKSGIVING always be fresh within us.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A GRATITUDE ATTITUDE!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Thankfulness