Daily Devotional for January 6, 2022

 
Years ago, a young man on our church staff walked into my office and said, “No one tells me thank you for what I do.”  I replied, “I tell you thank you all the time.”
 
He thought about this for a moment and said, “You do but no one else does.” 
 
Realizing part of the problem may be generational, I said, “The church says thanks to you every two weeks when you get a paycheck.” 
 
That was the moment I realized a positive affirmation was more important for him than his financial compensation.
 
Soon, he was working in his chosen career field, using his hard-earned degree developing software for a firm in Austin, Texas.  He was much happier.
 
This conversation has always stuck with me.  I learned from it.
 
Saying thank you matters because it shows you don’t take the person, or their efforts, for granted.
 
When was the last time you told your parent, doctor, bank teller, cashier, spouse, teacher, or waiter, “Thank you?”  More importantly, when was the last time you told God “Thank you?”
 
One of the most important components of a complete, whole life is a profound sense of gratitude.  It is an integral part of being a Christian.
 
This is why Paul said, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”  (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
 
Today, we can either take everyone and everything for granted and live an anemic existence or we can be grateful and have a joy filled day.  This choice is ours.
 
Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, fill my heart with gratitude and grace.  Help me demonstrate my appreciation for all I encounter and all I have, by my words and actions.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.
 
Being grateful and appreciative is a recipe for happiness.  
 
Also, just for the record, there is no reason to tell me how grateful you are for all my lifechanging, inspiring sermons.  I already know.  You’re welcome.
 
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins