Session 11

We have much to be thankful for

From The Overflowing Life: A 14-Day Devotional

Temper tantrums are never pretty. The screaming, crying, and flailing on the ground happens because children want something they can’t have.

They want the doll in the toy bin at home, instead of the one in their hand. They want the grapes that ran out yesterday, rather than the Goldfish in mom’s purse. Provision is all around them, but they fix on what they don’t have.

We don’t lay out in the toy aisle at Target, but we’ve all had meltdowns with God. We pray for something specific, but when our heavenly Father answers in an unexpected way, we get angry. We cry, complain, and even accuse Him of not loving us.

It’s easy to forget all the ways God provides for us — the air we breathe, the clothes on our backs, and the roof over our heads. When we focus only on what we lack, we give way to discontentment, anger, and bitterness.

In Jesus, we have all that we need and more. That’s the promise of 2 Corinthians 9:8. God is generous, meeting our needs so we can do the same for others.

Just like a toddler, we have to change our perspective. We must look up to the Father rather than compare with our siblings. From this vantage point, we see what we have rather than what we’re missing.

“God is holding out on us” is the message of the enemy. Our heavenly Father loves us, provides for us, and gives us everything we need.

As we live with Jesus, our understanding of His character deepens, our faith grows, and our hearts overflow with thankfulness. It’s the only natural response to how much He’s done (2 Corinthians 4:15).

Reflect:

• Are you angry with God? Take a few minutes and be honest about any doubts or disappointments that might make it difficult to be sincerely grateful.
  
• What are five things you can thank God for today?
  
• How does starting the day in thankfulness to God affect your attitude heading into the day?