I’ve a lot to give thanks for, but I’d rather grumble. Ever feel that way?

It’s been one of those weeks.

I’ve been:

•       ignored
•       overworked
•       forced to do what others ought to do
•       laughed at
•       and lied to.

I’ve:

•       listened to excuses
•       repeated simple answers
•       felt guilty for spending five extra minutes in the bathroom
•       overindulged in chocolate
•       and tomorrow doesn’t look to be much better.

All that in four days, and I’m not even raising teenagers!

All that in four days, and I still have reason to give thanks.

If you read my last two posts (and I hope you have) you know I’ve been thinking about thankfulness. It’s been on my mind again this week, and marrying my thankfulness to obedience has proven to be a challenge. A verse of scripture came to mind, just when I was about to divorce the two. In John 14:15 Jesus reminded me that if I love Him, I’ll keep His commandments. It’s not a stretch to say that if I am thankful for Him and to Him, I’ll be obedient to what he asks of me. Is it?

If Jesus’ words weren’t enough, my own words from last week scolded: “He made obedience to His commandments simple to understand. First: Love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and secondly, love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:38-40). We have no excuse. No loopholes. Our obedience and thankfulness are inseparably married. We’re getting it wrong if we obey, yet grumble. We are liars when we offer thanksgiving, yet live comfortably in disobedience.”

So, here I am before you and the God of all creation asking forgiveness for my disobedience, and hoping you will love me the way Jesus said to love your “neighbor.”

Heavenly Father,

Some days it’s not easy to be me. Remind me tonight as I fall asleep how I am fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Remind me again in the morning when I wake. I have been given the ability to be patient. You help me to listen and understand. You gave me the privilege that comes with my vocation and a voice to speak truth in kindness. Be with me. I am not persecuted. I am barely uncomfortable. Forgive my grumbling attitude. Thank you for payday – the one next Friday, and the forever one. Have I thanked you lately for chocolate? Thanks again for chocolate, and so much more.

Amen.