We have been talking about how the problem of complaining and how constant complaining reveals an ungrateful heart. When I am tempted to complain, I have made myself the center of the story.

We don’t like to admit that, but it is true. When Jesus is the center of my story, it changes how my story is told. That’s when I can choose to look for what’s right, not for what’s wrong in my life. It changes my perspective.

It is a choice to look for the goodness of God. I can choose to seek his grace. I can choose to seek his power. I can acknowledge he is shaping me, molding me and refining in me the image of his son.

And because I know God is in control, I can be sure he will use my situation for his glory. That is why I can choose not to complain. I can choose to give thanks.

Studies reveal that showing gratitude is good for us. A thankful heart improves physical and psychological health. It reduces depression. It boosts energy levels. I have read that thankful people even sleep better. Some say thankful people live longer.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Let’s be careful not to discount the importance of giving thanks. You may think it is nothing more than a matter of good manners, but it is so much more than that. I hope you see the value of being a thankful person.

Gratitude is not something that needs to be expressed just at Thanksgiving. It is something that needs to be said and heard throughout the year.

In the New Testament, we are repeatedly urged to be grateful. Why do you think that is? Is it because God really wants us to be polite people with good manners?

It is bigger than that. Gratitude helps put things in perspective. It’s like a set of corrective lenses for my entitled eyes. The Apostle Paul said, “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

I hope you will go out of your way to say thanks this week. Say thank you to somebody and then tell them why you are thankful. Say thank you to someone you’ve been taking for granted.

Express gratitude to someone who never asks for it. In some cases, our thanks may be long overdue. Let’s choose to daily live a life of gratitude because of what Jesus has done for us.

Steve Greene is the lead pastor of The Point in Seymour. Read his blog at pastorgreene.wordpress.com or email him at [email protected]. Send comments to [email protected].