One day the renowned Bible commentator Mathew Henry was robbed. Afterwards he wrote these words in his dairy:

“Father, I thank you that this was the first time I have ever been robbed.
“Father, I thank you that even though they took my all, it wasn’t much.
“Father, I thank you that all they took was my money, and not my life.
“Father, I thank you that I was the one who was robbed, and not the one doing the robbing.

What a great attitude! When we do something over and over again, it soon becomes a habit. Even our attitudes. And one of the best attitude habits we can develop is an attitude of gratitude.

Four Great Reasons for Developing an Attitude of Gratitude

1. Being thankful restores lost love

Proverbs 18:21 “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.”
Your words create positive or negative emotion. It’s impossible to continually criticize someone or something and maintain love for it. “You have left (not lost) your first love.” (Rev 2:4-5)

2. Being thankful curbs discontent

(Phil 4:11-12) “I have learned in whatever state I am to be content.” Contentment is not getting what you want, it’s enjoying what you have. (1 Tim 6:6) “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” (Ps 17:15) “I shall be satisfied when I awake in your likeness.”

3. Being thankful attracts people like a magnet

Being thankful for people makes them feel appreciated. We all naturally gravitate towards people who make us feel that way. This creates opportunities to build great friendships that will enrich many lives.

4. Being thankful is the way into God’s manifested presence

(Psalm 100:4) “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.” (Ps 50:23) “Whoever offers praise glorifies Me; and to him who orders his conduct aright I will show the salvation of God.”

Work at becoming a thankful, positive, praise-oriented person. Find something in everything to be thankful for, even in your darkest hour. “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thes 5:18) Then, when you have something to complain about people will really listen to you.

“Happy are the people who are in such a state;
Happy are the people whose God is the Lord!” - (Psalm 144:15)
Gratitude is the key to Happiness!

Yours for a happy heart as you serve the Lord

Dr. George Hill
President & Founder
Victory Churches International