This Month’s Word:  Grateful

Definition:  Feeling or expressing thanks; having or showing the desire or reason to thank somebody

Synonyms (words with same meaning):  Thankful, Appreciative, Indebted,

Antonyms (words with opposite meaning):  Unthankful, Ungrateful, Unappreciative, Unmindful

The Thanksgiving holiday season is upon us and, even with the insanity and sadness all around us, and although we have many things vying for our attention, we still must take the time to really look beyond these circumstances and be grateful. I realize that some may have to look deeper than others, but regardless of what our present situation may be, there is always a reason to be grateful. My mother would say, “Thank God things are as well as they are;” and “Thank God for a reasonable portion of my health.” It may be hard to believe, but it could be worse. Instead of having to deal with aches and pains, or having to take medication, or treatment, we could not be here; so we should be grateful that we are still here and able to do and be. If we pause and take our eyes off of our situations, we would see that there are others that are by far worse off than we are. That is yet another reason to be grateful.

One of the definitions of grateful given above is that it is an “expression” of giving thanks. This implies that we cannot be grateful and not express it. Being grateful is not lip service; it is not just saying it; it is showing it. Therefore, I challenge us that as we go through this week that we consciously think about the people that we are grateful for and express that to them not only by saying it but doing something for them. It does not have to be anything grand. The smallest demonstration of appreciation from the heart brings a smile to most people. Personally, I give cards or write a note expressing my heart, or give some small token that will let someone know I am grateful for their presence in my life.

During this week, I also challenge us to express our gratitude for all things that are good in our lives to the One that makes it all possible. Let us wake up every morning expressing a heart of gratitude towards Him. Throughout the day, let us give thanks to Him for all that He has done for us and all that He has given us – shelter, provisions, protection, and sanity. It only takes a second to pause and say thank you Lord, I am truly grateful for your presence in my life. Then express that gratefulness and show His love to someone else; be a blessing to someone that is less fortunate.

My mouth will speak the praise of the Lord, and all flesh will bless and gratefully praise His holy name forever and ever. Psalm 145:21 (AMP)