October 7, 2013

As a parent, one lesson we tried to instill in our children was to say, “please” and “thank you.” Children tend to want and grab, and then have an attitude of entitlement when they receive what they desire. Though no longer a child, I am still learning that lesson.

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Philippians 4:6, ESV)

In the stress and busyness of circumstances, I am usually pretty good at asking God for things. I’m not so good at giving Him thanks. I simply get wrapped up in the next thing to worry about. Over the last few weeks, God has given so much and answered so many prayers; yet, my heart is consumed with “the next thing.” Take a moment to pause and give thanks. Follow your “please” with a “thank you;” or be really radical and follow the flow of the verse and start with “thank you” before you say “please.”