A Grateful Heart

It's the time of year to recognize our thankfulness more.  A grateful heart is a healthy heart.  Many people only seek to be thankful of and not to be thankful for.  Max Lucado speaks of "The 'If Only River' as being on it's shore and being one step away from the good life." 

What is your 'if only' that keeps you from a life of gratitude and a good life? 

If only, you had a better job?  the kids moved away? the kids lived closer? you were married?  you were richer?  you were ____?   

Instead, look at what you are already blessed with.  

Colossians 3:15-17,  "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.  Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.  And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

As for myself, I am thankful for where I have been, where I am now, and where I am headed.  I am grateful that God created in me a heart that hasn't turned bitter despite all the hardships I have been through. 

Lord, help me to continue to recognize that this world is not my home.