Experiencing God's Presence #329

Let your lives be built on him . . . and you will overflow with thankfulness.

Colossians 2:7

Rivers and streams overflow when the rains are either intense or persistent. The amount of water running into them is greater than the capacity of their banks. We overflow with thanksgiving when God’s mercies and blessings fill us up. The amount of favor being poured into us is greater than the capacity of our hearts. When we realize the size of God’s generosity, we can’t help but be grateful.

But how do we let our lives overflow with thanksgiving when we feel dry and dusty? What if we’re going through a season of lack? That’s when gratitude is the last thing on our minds. We know we should be grateful to God; He has saved us and blessed us with many spiritual blessings. But the burdens we bear and the needs we have tend to outweigh the memory of His favor. In the absence of a tangible or recent touch from Him, we lament our difficult situations. We may even grumble about them.

Gratitude is a matter of perspective. The road back to it can begin with a conscious choice to notice what God has given. Even the basics—breath, a roof over our heads, the last meal we ate—are worth appreciating. We can thank Him for the things He has provided that He didn’t have to or for things that haven’t happened to us but could have. In every situation, there is something to be grateful for. When we find it and express it, our faith and gratitude increase. The attitude seems to have a positive snowball effect in our hearts.

Choose gratitude. Find something to give thanks for, and then say so. Out loud. The more you do, the more your life begins to overflow.

Father, You are worthy of a heart that overflows with thanksgiving toward You. When I think of all You have done and put it in perspective, I’m filled with gratitude. You have filled me up. Help me always remember to express my thanks.

From the book