Thankful Attitude

I wake up on the optimistic side of the bed. However, much of the world seems negative and hurtful. How can we live in an environment where attitudes are toxic and unhealthy?

This leads me to a much deeper question. Am I spiritually healthy? What we see and hear from others is truly a spiritual issue. What’s inside of us comes out in our words and actions, and it begins with our thoughts and values. “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2

Our senses drive our learning: what we see, hear, touch, taste, and smell. Unfortunately, we have to be very intentional…more than ever…on what to be cautious of and even avoid, as it can pollute our mind, body, and soul. How do we stay clear of unhealthy content? The Apostle Paul gives us a clear guide for our daily thoughts. “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8

During a difficult time of my life, I was going through a challenging situation that was out of my control. Feelings were hurt. Relationships were broken. Even in a moment of sensing my purpose was being lost, I began to say, “I’m thankful.” It was like a Job moment for me. What could I do, really? I began to give thanks because a greater work was happening inside of me. In my deepest hurt, hope was growing and a spiritual root was birthing a new tree that could grow healthy again.

What about you? Have you had a season when it seems like all is lost? Hope is gone? Fear took over? Can you turn from the pain and seek gratitude and live with a thankful heart? These attitudes will lead us to a place of greater faith. Let’s trust God to do exceedingly and abundantly beyond anything we can think or imagine.

A role model for me when it comes to being thankful is my mom. She lost four children before I was born. She has suffered battles with malaria, the loss of two husbands, and countless other illnesses. Still, she remains positive and thankful in the midst of challenges. Why? Because she knows how strong God is, even in our weakness. I have memorized 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Let’s give thanks and seek God’s will. He is still working even when it does not look like anything is changing.

How can we live each day to guard our attitudes? Do we speak helpful words versus hurtful words? Do we have positive thoughts versus negative thoughts? How can we be more proactive to choose a contagious attitude on the positive side of life? We know how negative attitudes spread…like gossip, arrogance, and discouraging words. Somehow, we never forget that sting and pain. Let’s take a walk on the optimistic side of the street and ask how we can pour out a positive influence starting with being thankful. ~Tim DeTellis