Who's Thankful for You?
My 53rd Thanksgiving day has raced past. The only challenge remaining is to argue with the bathroom scale. A pointless endeavor, it seems. At this point in my life, I can no longer eat for enjoyment--I must eat for atonement.
I've spent most of the first 52 Thanksgivings of my life dutifully thanking God for all that I have been graciously given from Him. I'm sure many others do the same. I have been given much more than I deserve: A happy 28-year marriage; 5 terrific children plus two perfectly charming daughters-in-law; a tremendous ministry opportunity and so many other things that will only grow richer throughout my life and eternity.
Being thankful for these is the easiest thing imaginable. While gratitude is a good thing, my Pastor said something in a recent sermon that added a whole new perspective. Preaching from Philemon, he said it is not enough just to be grateful for God's blessings--we must live our lives so that others are thankful for us.
As I ponder this I recall many missed opportunities to be this kind of man. A simple smile, a thoughtful gesture, a kind word, some frank advice--things that illuminate lives. I also realize how easy these things can be; how simple and free of cost. Yet, they bring value to peoples' lives. Sometimes what may be indiscernable to them now may yield immeasurable benefit later.
It is not for us to judge or estimate whether a person deserves these things. As the Apostle Paul was earnest in reminding Philemon to be merciful, we must also not let "mercy and truth forsake [us]" as well (Proverbs 3:3). For some of the people we know, this can be very difficult, but we must not let the conduct of others control our obedience to God.
As you enjoy yet another turkey sandwich over the next several days, I encourage you to set new goals for yourself. Throughout this next year, seek every opportunity to serve the Lord faithfully. One way to do that is to live for others' benefit. It elevates our spirits to think outside this "box" we call our lives. I pray as you become more grateful to God, that others would become more grateful for you.
I've spent most of the first 52 Thanksgivings of my life dutifully thanking God for all that I have been graciously given from Him. I'm sure many others do the same. I have been given much more than I deserve: A happy 28-year marriage; 5 terrific children plus two perfectly charming daughters-in-law; a tremendous ministry opportunity and so many other things that will only grow richer throughout my life and eternity.
Being thankful for these is the easiest thing imaginable. While gratitude is a good thing, my Pastor said something in a recent sermon that added a whole new perspective. Preaching from Philemon, he said it is not enough just to be grateful for God's blessings--we must live our lives so that others are thankful for us.
As I ponder this I recall many missed opportunities to be this kind of man. A simple smile, a thoughtful gesture, a kind word, some frank advice--things that illuminate lives. I also realize how easy these things can be; how simple and free of cost. Yet, they bring value to peoples' lives. Sometimes what may be indiscernable to them now may yield immeasurable benefit later.
It is not for us to judge or estimate whether a person deserves these things. As the Apostle Paul was earnest in reminding Philemon to be merciful, we must also not let "mercy and truth forsake [us]" as well (Proverbs 3:3). For some of the people we know, this can be very difficult, but we must not let the conduct of others control our obedience to God.
As you enjoy yet another turkey sandwich over the next several days, I encourage you to set new goals for yourself. Throughout this next year, seek every opportunity to serve the Lord faithfully. One way to do that is to live for others' benefit. It elevates our spirits to think outside this "box" we call our lives. I pray as you become more grateful to God, that others would become more grateful for you.
posted by themomwhite | 1:59 PM
|
1 comments
