Thankful.
Every night as a bedtime ritual when our kids were young, we’d gather in one of their rooms, say prayers and share “thankfuls.” Each of us would voice what we were thankful for that evening. Things like good grades, God’s protection, and our health. People like our teachers, our friends, our family.
Our kids grew up, moved out of the house, and the evening family “thankfuls” came to a halt all too quickly. But, something happened in those thankful moments. Those were moments that were real and authentic. And, God was present, hearing our hearts revealed in words. I imagine they blessed Him. They surely blessed me.
Living a life of thankful is living a real life.
A real life full of all that’s good, all that’s of God, and all that’s genuine.
Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way. Colossians 3:17 MSG
“Thankfuls” not just before bedtime, but in every details of our lives. Living thankful in every moment. So often we think of thankfulness at Thanksgiving time, and rightly so. But, living in thanksgiving brings our real life new meaning. It’s not just during the holiday of Thanksgiving, but in every single day.
When we live thankful we complain less and praise more. We worry less and pray more. We see darkness less and light becomes brighter. And, we walk a little closer with our Lord when we live thankful.
Living thankful also helps others live real lives.
As others see us walking through trials, and remaining thankful, hope is spread. As life doesn’t go as planned, but yet we see the silver lining, others are encouraged. The thing is, we may never know how our example might just be the thing that helps others live thankful and real lives.
I used to write down in a journal all I thanked God for each day. I’d say it’s as good a time as any to return to that habit. What do you do to share your thankfulness? What and whom are you thankful for today? If you care to share below, I would love to read your words and rejoice with you. It blesses me and others when you share.
I’m thanking God for you tonight, friend. I appreciate you spending a few precious minutes of your full day with me. I won’t ever take that for granted.
Let’s continue living real lives, together.
Bless you!
Julie
Today is Day 24 of 31 Days of Living a Real Life. You can find all previous posts in this series here.
I also used to write down three things I was thankful for every night before I went to bed. It was such a joyful way to end the evening and also fun to look back on. Thanks for reminding me it is time to start that habit again and sharing this blog that I love!
God Bless Jodie
Hi Jodie! How fun it is to see you here! I’m with you… I’m reminded to get back to writing down what I’m thankful for every day. Glad we can encourage each other to do so! Hope you’re having a great week. Bless you!
And this is why I began writing my Sunday Blessings series on my blog. It makes a difference!
Amen, Tara. It makes all the difference! Love your blog!