365 Days of Thanks

Monday, November 21, 2011 Posted by Joline

30 Days of Thanks. Thankful Trees. Gratitude Journal.

There are just so many ways for us to track those things, people, events, and moments, for which we are thankful. As a natural "tracker", I really enjoy tools to help me maintain a habit of recording devotionals, workouts, even calories.

Years ago I attempted to keep a Gratitude Journal, or Thankfulness Diary - call it what you will.

I got the surprise of my life. I couldn't keep up.

What I learned then (almost 20 years ago now) is that I can not possibly record every single God-sighting in my life.

And I am thankful for that. How beautiful is it to know that I can not keep up with my God.

What the exercise DID instill in me was the conviction that regardless of whether I can "track" or "mark" it down, thankfulness MUST be a daily part of my day. It shouldn't be an exclusive accessory worn only for the month of November or Thanksgiving Day. It is why I ask my children every night, "What are you thankful to God for today?" My answer is always the same - even if the answer is "Donuts at church". "Great. Tell Him."

1 Thessalonians 5:18 instructs us to "give thanks in all circumstances; for THIS (my emphasis) is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Think 365 days of thanks. God is up to His goodness all year long!