Gratitude of Grace

It all began when I read Ann's book "1000 Gifts."

I wasn't even looking for it, but not long after finishing that one, I stumbled upon "Choosing Gratitude" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

I read through it, deeply challenged.

"Do we only give glory to God for the part of our life that's going the way we want?  Or do we worship Him, trust Him, and give Him thanks, just because He is God- regardless of the dark, painful, incomprehensible places we encounter in our journey?... Regardless of how I may feel, anything that makes me need God is a blessing." -- Nancy Leigh DeMoss

 When I got to the end of the book and encountered the 30 days of gratitude devotionals in the back, I purposed to take the time to pour over each one.

I am convinced it is definitely a theme God is working to embed deep into the crevices of my heart.  Everywhere I look I am seeing it.

My son came home from their high school retreat sharing that this was a main theme of their time away.

We were led by the pastor a few weeks ago to spend an entire Sunday morning service, whoever wanted to, just publicly giving praise and being thankful for the things that God has done.

Noticing.

And even here in blogland one can't go far without sensing it's undercurrents.  Whether it's joining Ann for Multitude Monday, or Pam for Thursday Thanks Tank, or even Susanne with Friday's Favorite Five... I'm seeing it surround me.

I have purposely made it so that I am reminded throughout my day of this challenge to my own heart.  My computer screen saver simply says... Choose Gratitude.   

"I can whine
        -or-
I can worship!"
  --Nancy Leigh DeMoss

I am learning to speak a new language more intentionally.  I am learning to pen pages of thankfulness.  I am learning to look for glimpses of His gifts... of Him.  I am learning to treasure a new way of living.

Gratitude of Grace... His gifts of love and mercy poured out throughout my day.

Just waiting for me to stop.

Notice.

Embrace.

Treasure.

And as I do... I am blessed, encouraged, and ever Grateful!