Remembering The Thanks!

There was a minister who wrote in his year-end report, "Nine persons lost at sea." When the congregation expressed their amazement and shock regarding his notation, he stated, "Eleven people requested prayers for those going to sea, but only two asked me to give thanks for a safe return. I assumed the other nine were lost at sea." (original source unknown)

Oh, how thankful many were whose LIVES were touched and CHANGED FOREVER by Jesus. For example, there was the demon possessed man living among the tombs who upon being healed by Jesus stated his desire to go with him. ( Luke 8:38) How extremely grateful he must have been to have his mind and his life back. However, there was one occasion when Jesus healed ten lepers where we read. . .

"(15) Then ONE OF THEM, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; (16) and he FELL ON HIS FACE AT JESUS' FEET, GIVING HIM THANKS. Now he was a Samaritan. (17) Then Jesus answered, 'Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? (18) Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?'" ( Luke 17:15-18 ESV)

While nine continued on their way, this one returned to first give thanks. How many times has our life been marked by simply going on our way without remembering the thanks that should be in our heart and on our lips for all God continues to provide; both physically and spiritually? How often have we prayed to God regarding specific desires and needs, but then have taken the receiving of them for granted?

David exhorted. . .
"(1) Bless the LORD, O my soul, and ALL THAT IS WITHIN ME, BLESS HIS HOLY NAME! (2) Bless the LORD, O my soul, AND FORGET NOT ALL HIS BENEFITS," ( Psalm 103:1-2 ESV)

Remember! Don't forget! Never take those benefits for granted! Especially when we consider how JESUS HAS CHANGED OUR LIFE FOREVER!

Have a great day FOREVER THANKFUL!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Thankfulness