Be Grateful For What You Are

Be Grateful for What You Are

Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession. James 1:17-18

I wish I had her trim shape. I wish I had her exciting job. Why aren’t my clothes as cool and stylish as hers? I wish my house were decorated in a more updated way. . . .

Researchers say it’s part of our American mind-set to desire to have more, go further, be happier, and look better than our parents and especially than our neighbors and friends. While a little friendly rivalry can spur on our exercise efforts if we have a workout partner, being green with envy at what others have can send us into a downward spiral.

One of the best antidotes to the comparison trap is gratitude for what God has given us and for what we are. When we appreciate our own abilities and the gifts God has given us, contentment and peace settle in our hearts. We realize that every good gift comes from God, as today’s verses tell us. We are not to pridefully compare ourselves with others but to be grateful because out of God’s whole creation, he has made those who belong to his Son his choice possession, and we are beloved by him. That truth alone is reason for great thanksgiving and rejoicing.

Whenever you are feeling insignificant or “less than,” let me encourage you to write a list of the blessings and gifts God has given you, the attributes and characteristics he has crafted in your life. The dark clouds of regret will begin to clear, and you’ll be grateful once again for what you are and for what God has graciously given you. —CHERI

My Lord, you are an amazingly loving and giving God. How I thank you that in your goodness, you chose to make me your own child by giving me your true word and making me your choice possession. Thank you for your unchanging love!

On days when I feel insignificant, I think about the new person I am and the specialness of the relationship I now have with Christ. If I ever catch my reflection in a mirror and see a questioning woman wondering, Who am I? I respond, I am a woman who is unique in the universe and certain of my personal worth because I am loved by God and complete in Christ. —SUE BURNHAM, AUTHOR