The Power of a Thankful HeartSample

 Thankfulness is as Thankfulness Does  

  The words, “Thank you,” can easily become a lifeless, mechanical kneejerk reaction that is spoken with precious little thought, meaning, appreciation, or integrity. What “Thank you” should be is an intentional expression of sincere gratitude that communicates the intent of a thankful heart regardless of how big or small the deed inspiring the “thanks” maybe. It is easy to think that the Lord has other, more lofty concerns on His mind and doesn’t need or isn’t concerned about our expressions of gratitude. Nothing could be further from the truth. He takes notice of whether or not we appreciate His gifts to us just as any parent notices if their child appreciates a gift or callously just wants more, disregarding their tangible expression of love.

This is evident in Luke 17:12-19 which depicts Jesus healing ten lepers upon their pleading with Him to have mercy on them. As they turned and went to show themselves to the priests at Jesus’ command, that’s when their healing occurred. Nine of the ten kept going, rejoicing in their gift, but one stopped to thank the Giver. He “…fell down on his face at His feet, giving him thanks” (KJV). However, the other nine didn’t escape the Lord’s notice. He was quick to ask where they were, implying that He was wondering why they weren’t grateful enough for the gift of healing they had just received to also thank Him. 

Over and over the Bible enjoins us to give thanks to the Lord — in Psalm 107 alone, the psalmist cries out for us to “…give thanks to the Lord” (NIV) some five times. And just as the tenth healed leper’s thankful actions spoke louder than any words ever could have, we need to express our thankfulness to God with more than just talk. Thankfulness is as thankfulness does! Thus, every day can be Thanksgiving as we show the Giver how thankful we are for His unsearchable gifts and goodness.