This past Thanksgiving week, I spent some time with believers who have lived in an impoverished, risky place in the world. Their faith deeply challenged me—especially their thankful hearts. Even though I heard their stories only through translation, their gratitude put my “thanksgiving” to shame. Here are my reflections:
- I too often tie my value to what I have gained more than to what God has done for me. When you have very little, though, you learn the value of prioritizing a relationship with your Creator.
- I take for granted what others consider to be incredible blessings. When other believers from around the world are astounded at the number of food options we have available in our grocery stories, you can’t help but take a good look at your heart.
- I’m not convinced others see undeniable joy in me just because God has saved me. I hope I’m wrong, but I’m not sure. I am certain my joy is not as apparent as that of my new friends I met this past week.
- I far too easily get stressed by hardships—rather than thank God for what they teach me. Frankly, I’m amazed by how quickly I get frustrated at little things after hearing the stories of these other believers who deal with much weightier matters.
- My faith costs me very little, but I’ve not often expressed thanksgiving for God’s ongoing care and protection. The only reason I’ve not faced what other believers have faced is that God has graciously granted provision and shelter. I have much reason to say, “Thank you.”
- I might talk about God’s gift to allow me to preach the Word without fear of persecution, but my gratitude is probably only surface level. I typically think otherwise—but that thinking changes when I meet believers who proclaim the Word in spite of real opposition.
- I have failed to say “thank you” enough when I open the Word in my language and in my hands—and when I get to hear others preach in my mother tongue. Even as I write this post, I’m convicted of my need to truly recognize these blessings other brothers and sisters don’t always have.
- I tend to give out of my excess rather than out of genuine sacrifice. My friends who’ve had very little actually brought us gifts this past week. That’s humbling.
What about you? In what ways do you recognize your need to be more grateful?