Dear Church Family –
It’s Thanksgiving week and even secular sources tell us that being thankful, and expressing gratitude, makes us happier and healthier and creates better and stronger relationships. Not to mention it’s a clear command from our loving heavenly Father, “In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
But because of Adam’s fall, we are naturally selfish and ungrateful. Gratitude is first learned, then loved.
Here’s some suggestions for teaching your children and grandchildren gratitude, and for developing thankfulness in your home.
Check your own complaining and grumbling. Repent of it. Ask your family’s forgiveness.
Set the pace and example. Take the lead in expressing gratitude and in finding things to be thankful for.
When going through a hard time or bad circumstance, lead and teach your children to express sadness and sorrow, to give the situation to God, and then to be thankful for God and His goodness and mercy. Express thankfulness for God’s care and for loving, helpful people He brings into our lives when we hurt in life. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians4:6-7).
Check your children’s complaining and lead them to replace it with thankfulness.
Require “please” and “thank you” when the children or grandchildren ask for something. (And make sure to use your own pleases and thank yous.)
Have fun with the kids and grandkids making Thank You notes for Christmas and Birthday presents, or helping them make Thank You phone calls.
Lead the kids in saying something they’re thankful for about their brothers and sisters—especially if they’re complaining about a sibling.
Express, to them, why you’re thankful for your spouse and your children.
And thank you, church family, for your faithfulness, your faith, your joy, and acceptance! It's a blessing to be part of the family. Looking forward to Thursday. – Pastor Tim
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