LIFESTYLE OF GRATITUDE (3)

“Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and BE THANKFUL” – Colossians 3:15

The attitude and LIFESTYLE of GRATITUDE also impact human relationships: “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and BE THANKFUL” (Col.3:15). This and other scriptures highlight the importance, and encourage a lifestyle of appreciation and gratitude to others, recognizing the good they do, showing kindness, and being thankful for the support and love we receive: “And be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” (Eph.4:32). Showing kindness and forgiveness is foundational to expressing gratitude and appreciation. 

Believers are urged to allow the peace of Christ to rule in our hearts and be thankful. Gratitude should be a foundational aspect of Christian Living, flowing from a heart at peace with God and others. Gratitude is not just a feeling, but a lifestyle that should permeate all aspects of our thoughts, words, and actions. Being thankful is presented as a natural response to the peace that comes from Christ. The call to thankfulness extends beyond specific blessings: “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, GIVING THANKS to God the father through Him” (v.17). Believers should give thanks in all circumstances. This does not mean ignoring difficulties, but sustaining an attitude of gratitude even in challenging situations.

Paul the apostle had the practice of expressing gratitude for his fellow Believers, even in his prayers: "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy” (Phil.1:3-4). We should learn to rejoice and be grateful for each day as a gift from God: “This is the day that the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psa.118:24). Gratitude is a seemingly small things that can benefit us and others in big ways! Appreciating others is like iron sharpening iron: "As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend" (Psa.27:17). This highlights the positive impact that friends and companions can have on each other, encouraging gratitude for those who help us grow. 

Today’s meditation passage encourages a lifestyle of Gratitude, where thankfulness is not a one-time event but a continuous, pervasive attitude. Colossians 2:7 also encourages having an attitude of gratitude in all aspects of our lives: "Rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been TAUGHT, abounding in it with THANKSGIVING.” In essence, we should cultivate the habits of recognizing and appreciating God’s blessings in our lives, especially the blessings of destiny helpers, who also must be appreciated. The Lifestyle of Gratitude and Thankfulness can foster positive relationships and unity within the Christian community, as Believers are called to peace as members of one Body – the Church.