Gratitude, Part 2: Unlock the Fullness of Life

In the midst of a life lesson, a storm, when we are drowning in a sea of choices that have led us into the abyss, it is not the spirit of gratitude that is at the forefront of our hearts and minds. In many cases, we can't even find our mind. We've forgotten all about God because we are certain that God has forgotten about us. We have lost our way, on the road that leads to purpose and destiny. We've made a wrong turn, and our sense of direction has left us at the side of the road. When the only thing we can focus on is sapping away our sanity, what is there, you may wonder, to be grateful for, and why bother?

Gratitude will lift that weight off your chest and remove the anchor that has you plummeting to the deepest depths of the abyss. If you are reading this and you are in the midst of chaotic madness, even if you have to force yourself, be grateful. Exercise your free will and bring your mind and emotions under submission to the will of God for your life.

The Bible says, "Count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing" (James 1:2-4 KJV). "Whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything" (James 1:2-4 NLT). In every moment, be grateful. Be grateful for your past, grateful for your present, and grateful for the promise of a future reality. God is showing you something that He's ready to help you change about you.

Gratitude is the life preserver God throws to us when we have thrown ourselves overboard. Gratitude is the catalyst to joy and empowers us to save ourselves. Be grateful for the test. Within every test is the substance of your testimony and the foundation for your next level. At the core of every lesson is the seed of Divine blessing. Cliché? Perhaps, but the Word of God is All Power, and He will work that power in our lives.