Gratitude

“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! … Enter his gates with thanksgiving and praise!”

Psalm 100:1-5

“It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness; and gratitude makes all we have enough.” 

— Charles Spurgeon

When I was a new believer, I had left everything to follow Jesus — my home, job, family, everything. I was totally dependent on Him, but I was still very self-reliant at heart.

I remember going on a date and being embarrassed because the girl had to pick me up and pay for dinner. I had no car, no money, and was turning 30. I was eating free bread from Panera and apples off a tree. I got mad at God. I thought, “I gave up everything for You, and this is what I get?”

I was ungrateful.

A mentor told me to write down 100 things I was thankful for. At first, I couldn’t think of even one. But I started. It took a few days, but I finished the list.

My circumstances didn’t change right away — but my heart did.

Not long after, God provided a car, I met my wife, and things began to improve. I’m so glad He didn’t give me more while I was still ungrateful.

Gratitude is how we enter God’s presence. It’s hard to be joyful when you’re ungrateful.

If you’re struggling today, start writing down things you’re thankful for. Your situation may not change immediately, but your heart will. And when your heart changes, God can trust you with more.

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and praise.”

Thank God today — even in the hard places. You’ll be glad you did.

Have a great day!