In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.  1 Thessalonians 5:18

One day last week I awoke thinking of things I desired but didn’t have. My first impulse was to complain; then I decided to write down all the things I had to be thankful for. It wasn’t long until I had a list that filled several pages.  When I thought of the many blessings God has given me through Christ, joy rose in my heart. I could sense the presence of God with me. I no longer felt sorry for myself. The temptation to complain about my life had vanished. Tears of gratitude formed in my eyes as I reflected on all the wonderful things God has given me.  I am grateful that God desires a relationship with me and calls me a son. Through reading God’s word, I find many reasons to be thankful. When I focus on all the good things in my life, God’s great love for me becomes real. Now when I am tempted to complain, I get out my list and review all that I have to be thankful for. Then all other concerns are insignificant by comparison.