A Thankful Heart

Today marks the first day of a series that I have debated about writing for a couple years now. I thought it would be fun to write a daily advent devotional to be used throughout the holiday season. Hope you like it.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."


As our hearts turn toward the celebration of Thanksgiving, we are reminded of the importance of giving thanks. I remember when my oldest son was just two years old. At the time he had a huge fascination with tractor trailer trucks. Many times he would watch from our kitchen bay windows to the highway about a half mile away. He would watch and say, "Car, truck, BIG TRUCK." I knew when he said "BIG TRUCK" he was talking about an eighteen wheeler.

Ever since he was little we had made a point of doing daily devotions with him. One day we were traveling on the highway to visit his Grandma. I still can see him sitting in his car seat and saying his first prayer with eyes wide open and watching. He prayed, "Thank you God for BIG TRUCKS." At that moment a tractor trailer truck was passing our car.

I realize though that his prayer came from a heart that had learned the importance of giving thanks to God. His prayer was just the overflow of his heart. He thanked God for something that he was passionate about seeing.

ACTIVITY
As we gear up for the holiday season which is quickly approaching, take a few moments just to thank God. Keep a record throughout the Advent season of at least one thing you are thankful for each day. Share with someone your thankful heart. Perhaps you will encourage them to be thankful as well.

PRAYER
I thank you Lord for the gift of Jesus so many years ago. May I find a way each day to give you thanks and praise, no matter what circumstances I face. May you cultivate in me a thankful heart. Amen.