Philippians 4:8 “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.”

Each day we begin by making a choice. Do we allow our minds and our thoughts free reign to go where they want or do we choose what it is we will dwell on? Our attitudes and actions are both reflections of the things we allow ourselves to think about. That is why the Apostle Paul instructs believers to take charge of their minds, and to focus on the good. If we allow the negative things in our lives to paint our attitudes, we will never mirror our Savior. Thinking on good things leads to thankfulness while focusing on problems only serves to increase the burden we carry. Why is it that human beings so often will ignore the numerous blessings surrounding them in favor of focusing on the problem or difficulties in their lives? We float in a sea of blessings and choose to complain because our boat’s not big enough! It is not wrong to acknowledge our problems…only to allow them to overshadow everything else we have to be thankful for. Before we come with our complaints, let us first come in gratitude, demonstrating our awareness of every good and wonderful thing he has done for us.

Pray: “Dear Lord, my blessings are so numerous that were I to sit and dwell on them, I could keep myself occupied for hours. From my earliest days you have led me through trials, ensuring all things worked for my good. Still, it is up to me to choose what I will set my eyes on. There is so much to be thankful for, let my gratitude always precede my need. In your holy name, Lord Jesus, I ask - Amen.”