How many of you only thank God for the big events that occur in your life? How about the little things? Did you thank Him for that wonderful juicy peach you ate at breakfast? Or the fact that your husband actually threw out the cereal box without leaving it empty on the counter like he usually does? These are all things that you should thank God for, especially if it makes you feel better.
God wants us to be thankful for not only the large stuff, like a raise, but also for the little things. We should have a heart of gratitude for everything God does for us. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reads, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
It doesn’t say to give thanks only for the big stuff. It says “all circumstances”. That means large, small, and whether it’s good news or bad. God has a reason for what you’re going through.
If at the end of the day you look back and only count the large blessings, you might not feel there were many. And once you compare them to the bad or irritated stuff that occurred, you might think there was nothing to be thankful for.
Instead of counting the big stuff, go through your day praising God for the little things. Next time you get ready for bed think over all the minor events of your day. We take a lot for granted. Some of the little stuff we assume will work out could actually ruin your day if they don’t.
Here are a few examples:
Did God keep you safe on your way to work? Even a fender bender can ruin your day.
Was someone nice to you today? How many of us only remember the rude callers?
Did your car start this morning? Imagine having to wait an hour for your auto club to show up.
Did you have milk for your cereal? Dry cereal doesn’t taste real good.
Was that cup of coffee good? I’m sure you know what a terrible cup tastes like.
As you can see, the list can be endless. But we should be grateful for these things as much as we are for a good health report. I’m thankful my lawnmower started this morning.
What small thing can you praise God for today?
Sometimes a mug of hot jasmine tea in the early morning at my computer is a mighty big (small) thing for which I give thanks.
Wonderful post, Kathryn. Like most of us, no, I don’t remember to give thanks in everything, but I do often give thanks for the little things. Most of us have more blessings than we can count. You are one of mine for this reminder. Praise God for letting us be a blessing to each other!
Davalynn, that’s a good thing to be thankful for. It calms stress and is a good way to start your day.
Thanks Donna. I hope you have a blessed week.
i’m thankful for frozen mango, a cup of tea, warm summer mornings and the fact that when my son vanished on me, he WASN’T outside on the street somewhere like i feared, but hiding under the bed upstairs. could have been SO much worse!
You are right. It could have been worse. God was watching over the little guy. I bet you had that frozen mango after you found him. Have a good week, Patty. Thanks for stopping by.