For, behold, are we not all beggars? Do we not all depend upon the same being, even God, for all the substance which we have…?

[From Let Gratitude Show You the Way: A 21-Day Devotional Guide, Herald House, 2012]

Gratitude doesn’t require a certain amount of money, any special equipment, or even a stress-free life. However, just because gratitude is good, positive, and freely available doesn’t make it easy. There are many obstacles that get in the way of gratitude, such as busyness, negativity, envy, greed, fear, entitlement, and forgetfulness.

Possibly the most significant obstacle is pride, believing we’re 100% self-sufficient and we got where we are today entirely on our own. We’re never comfortable asking or admitting we need the help of others; to do so would hurt our pride. The reality is self-sufficiency, and independence has its limits. We didn’t create ourselves, or pave the roads we drive on, grow the food we eat, or make the clothes we wear.

Think of a time when you allowed your pride to refuse a gift or refused to receive the generosity of others? What could you do differently?

What are you grateful for today?

Prayer Phrase

“For everything created by God is good” (1 Timothy 4:4).

Spiritual Practice

Joy of Gratitude

Stand, if possible, with arms outstretched. Imagine God filling your arms with all that you have: family, friends, and possessions. Hold out your arms until they feel tired. Now, bring your arms across your body. Place your hand over your heart and thank God for the abundance that fills your life. Sit for a time aware of that abundance. Then ask God to help you open your heart in gratitude and share freely with others.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.