Our theme this month is thanksgiving. Like Melissa, I had debated about making a list of thankful items, which would have been easy to knock out, but I also have a confession to make.
I don't always have an attitude of gratitude.
In fact, I am downright ungrateful at times towards a kind and loving God. I can quickly forget His goodness and complain like the Israelites in the wilderness. (Ex. 14: 11) I've wondered whether He has forgotten to be gracious. (Psalm 77:9) I've doubted His timing. (John 11: 21) I could use trials as an excuse, but James doesn't let me off the hook either. (James 1:2) In so many ways, I fall short of giving thanks in all circumstances. (1 Thess. 5:18)
There's no doubt that I have not done as I ought, but where I have failed…
God does not deal with me according to my sins. He does not repay me according to my iniquities. (Psalm 103:10)
God is faithful and just to forgive my sins. (1 John 1:9)
God receives me because of Christ, not because I'm thankful. (Heb. 10:19-23)
So even though I am deficient yet Christ is all sufficient. I am still a work in progress, but God is faithful to complete what He has started. And for these gospel reminders, I am very thankful.
It's your turn now. What are you thankful for today? How does the gospel inform your thankfulness?
The gospel reminds that that I cannot save myself, and I am thankful for that, because it takes a lot of pressure off to "perform." I can rest knowing that the God of the Universe has saved me!
ReplyDeleteThank you for voicing what is in all our hearts at times. Thankful for my small group, for the young children at the table with a healthy appetite, for the freedom to get in the car and drive without fear. I am thankful for Paul's love for the Philippians and how we too can share that deep affection because of the gospel.
ReplyDeleteAnd meant to add that I am not thankful for my anger which at times can be so easily provoked. But the gospel convicts me and forgiveness is there.
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