For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.~Romans 1:20-21 (emphasis mine).

I’m thankful to have a day each year that is set aside for Americans to consciously consider our blessings, but, for Christians, this should be our lifestyle. It’s sad that so many choose to dwell on the negative circumstances they are in instead of focusing on the blessings they have been given. One may grieve a child that has died and lose sight of those that are still with them. Another may be mad over a job they did not get while forgetting that God may have another plan for their life. This lack of gratitude causes “foolish hearts” to be “darkened.” These people are not fun to be around, and they often sink into depression that is hard to bring them out of since they cannot see their way to a place of gratitude.

For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy. ~2 Timothy 3:2 (emphasis mine)

It’s interesting that Paul lists “unthankful” among the list of sins that will be rampant in the last days. Ingratitude is not something I hear preached against, but placed in the above list, it is something we should take seriously.

Are you heavy burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will be singing as the days go by.  ~from the hymn “Count Your Blessings”

These lyrics may seem simplistic, but I have found that when I thank God for His blessings in spite of whatever trial I am going through, I can often sing in spite of it.

I’m not downplaying loss and how hard this time of year is for a lot of people. But I do want to challenge you to not let that be your focus. Let those who are still living know how thankful you are for them. If you have a roof over your head and food on your table, thank the Lord. Not everyone has that. Since you are alive, God still has a plan for your life, and that is something to thank Him for! As the hymn goes on to say, “Count your blessings. Name them one by one.” Let’s see how many we can count this week … and then keep counting!