The Power of a Thankful HeartSample

 Thankfulness and Forgiveness: A Godly Response to Ingratitude 

  We have all had the experience of doing good for someone and rather than being shown gratitude, instead, being taken for granted, under appreciated, and disrespected — it happens. The offensive emotions such things generate can range from hurt, to resentment, to anger and beyond. Or… We can respond to such disregard as sons of our Heavenly Father who “makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:45, NKJV).

Jesus was emphatic in Matthew 5:43-44, that we should love our enemies, bless those who curse us, and do good to those who hate us. He also commanded us to pray for those who spitefully use and persecute us (NKJV). This must be our response to any and all who do not place value on our sacrifices on their behalf. We must respond in the opposite spirit just as our Father in Heaven, keep our grateful heart intact, and let our rain of goodness continue to fall upon them — whether they appreciate it, are thankful for it, or just don’t care. It is ours to forgive, be vigilant with an attitude of gratitude, and be thankful even for those who disparage our godliness. God builds His love, character, and humility in us as we remain forgiving and thankful against all odds.