Gratitude Burns Away Envy and Bitterness

“I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” - G.K. Chesterton

Gratitude burns away envy and bitterness as the morning sun burns away the dew. Without it, there could be no community, no fellowship, and no true cooperation toward greater endeavors. It is a weapon for both offense and defense. The central place where gratitude begins is the table where we get our daily sustenance. It shows we are dependent on something outside of ourselves. Every single day.

He gives to the beasts their food, and to the young ravens that cry. - Psalm 147:9

He who gives food to all flesh, for his steadfast love endures forever. - Psalm 136:25

He provides food for those who fear him. - Psalm 111:5

You cause the grass to grow for the livestock and plants for man to cultivate, that he may bring forth food from the earth and wine to gladden the heart of man, oil to make his face shine, and bread to strengthen man’s heart. - Psalm 104:14-15

These all look to you to give them their food in due season. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are filled with good things. - Psalm 104:27

Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? - Matthew 6:26

May you and your family have a full table and fuller bellies. But above all, may you be filled with thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving.