“I would give more praise”
The Duke of Wellington was the great British military leader who regretted that he had not learned the secret of praise during his lifetime. He had many great accomplishments and even defeated Napoleon at Waterloo. He was a brilliant and demanding man and when he was older, he realized that there were areas in his life that needed to change. In his old age a woman asked him this question, “What would you do differently if you had your life to live over again?” He thought carefully and said, “I would give more praise.” This is a lesson for all of us; if we would learn to be people of praise and thanksgiving all the days of our lives it would be a great accomplishment.
I will sacrifice a thank offering to you and call on the name of the Lord.
Psalm 116:17
Let each of us seek an attitude of gratitude and thanksgiving, rising to a new level of holiness in our lives.
[pushquote]Let each of us seek an attitude of gratitude and thanksgiving, rising to a new level of holiness in our lives. [/pushquote]3 ways to practice an attitude of thankfulness in everyday life
1. Thank and praise God for everything in your life.
Thank Him for even the difficulties. It is a sacrifice to do this. But He can turn troubles to triumph.
“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise — the fruit of lips that confess his name”
Hebrews 13:15
2. Don’t allow yourself to complain about anything.
During the difficult times, be very careful to watch your tongue. Instead of complaining, think of ways you can verbally offer God the sacrifice of thanksgiving.
3. Don’t compare yourself with others.
Don’t wish that your life was different. God knows what is best. The bible says having a thankful heart is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. When we begin to thank God for what we have rather than comparing ourselves with others, it opens the door for God’s blessings.
“God smiles when we praise and thank Him continually. Few things feel better than receiving heartfelt praise and appreciation from someone else. God loves it, too. … An amazing thing happens when we offer praise and thanksgiving to God. When we give God enjoyment, our own hearts are filled with joy.”
Rick Warren
Throughout all our lives, may we give thanks and praise to our great God!