Cultivating a thankful heart

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Colossians 3:15

Pastor Warren Wiersbe tells the story about a ministerial student named Edward Spencer. He lived in Evanston, Illinois, and was part of a lifesaving squad on the banks of Lake Michigan.

One night, a ship went aground on the lake and Spencer was called into action. He waded again and again into the frigid waters to rescue 17 passengers. And in the process, the sub-zero temperatures left his health permanently damaged.

Many years later at Spencer’s funeral, it was mentioned that he had saved 17 lives that night, and was left disabled in the process. Someone mentioned, “Those passengers must have been so grateful.” To which a family member responded, “Come to think of it, not one of them ever thanked him.”

Thankfulness seems to be a lost art today. Many people don’t see the value in stopping to acknowledge the kindness of others – or of God, who sent His only Son to die for our sins.

Take time to cultivate a heart of thankfulness to others, and to God!

Prayer Challenge

Pray and ask God to give you a heart of thankfulness for everything you’ve been given.

Questions for Thought

Why do you think many people tend to forget to express appreciation?

What might a stronger attitude of thankfulness look like in your life?