READING: 1 Samuel 9-12, Luke 17
Ten lepers cried out to Jesus for mercy, and He told them to go show themselves to the priests — indicating they would be healed on the way. Indeed, they were, but only one returned to Jesus to thank Him. They likely had plenty to do, like getting clothing, returning to family, finding their friends. Perhaps looking for a job. My guess is they got busy quickly . . . too busy to return to the One who could ultimately save them. Too busy to take time to be grateful.
When we’re too busy to be grateful, we’re too busy. Or, maybe we’re just ungrateful. Whatever the case may be, we must counter our tendencies toward ingratitude by intentionally expressing thanks throughout the day. Even if others press on with the day without saying “thank you,” we must return to Jesus in gratitude—even if we’re the only ones doing so.
PRAYER: “God, make me genuinely thankful.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: As you work on anything today, thank God for the opportunity. When you complete it, thank God again.
TOMORROW’S READING: 1 Samuel 13-14, Luke 18:1-20
*some portions of this devotion were first published in 2015 on this site