4 Days to Growing Gratitude in MarriageНамуна

Notice that today’s scripture passages show clearly that thankfulness is a characteristic of God’s people. Ephesians 5:3-5 explains things that have no place in God’s family: immorality, impurity, greed, coarse speech. What does belong? Gratitude.

This instruction is repeated in Colossians, where we are told to let God’s message fill our entire lives, which will evoke a response of thankfulness. These verses give us a clear picture of what it looks like when lives are changed by Jesus: no longer are we selfish, fixated on getting and taking. Rather, we are moved by God’s grace to respond with joy, generosity, and gratitude. We are able to encourage others and to live as representatives of Jesus.

Imagine the bold contrast that Hebrews 13 refers to - Before Christ, animal sacrifices were required to atone for sin. Now because of Jesus, the days of constantly offering sacrifices for sin are over. Instead, we are called to a “continual sacrifice of praise to God,” aware of the gift of His perfect sacrifice.

In your daily life, do your words and attitude reflect gratitude? Does your home reflect the thankfulness, encouragement, and generosity we see in these passages?

In my home, this is certainly a work in progress … and the progress is slow! It can be discouraging to look around and see areas where these encouraging passages are not currently coming alive in myself and in my own marriage and family. Yet at the same time, I know that being shaped into the image of Jesus is a slow daily process. I want to be grateful even for the small steps that bring us closer to a culture of thanksgiving!

Do not discount the impact of small steps toward a culture of gratitude in your marriage and your home. Invite God into your midst to grow and shape you and your marriage into vessels of His kingdom, reflecting His light, and the gratitude He calls His people to, wherever you go.

Next Step: Today, make your last thoughts of the day be reflections on what you are thankful for. As you finish the day, discuss with your spouse where you saw God at work in you, your life, your family, and your community. (Set a reminder to do this if you’re likely to forget!)