Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

As little children, we are taught the importance of saying “thank you.” When someone presents us with a gift, whether it’s a toy from our parents, a warm bed, or even a refreshing cold drink on a hot day, instinctively, we express our gratitude. In the heart of America, freedom is another delightful gift we cherish, compelling us to say thank you, even when we know it’s something someone is legally obligated to provide. 

Yet, as we journey through life, one of the biggest distinctions we might overlook is the difference between natural gratitude and gracious gratitude. Jonathan Edwards, an influential American revivalist, emphasized this distinction profoundly.

Natural gratitude is easy to feel. It’s that spark of appreciation for everything that benefits us. Everyone possesses this capability; it is inherent in our nature to enjoy the gifts, joys, and pleasures life brings. But what about during the unexpected trials? When our circumstances are less than favorable, how do we express our gratitude then?

Gracious gratitude, on the other hand, is a divine characteristic reserved for the children of God. It transcends our circumstances and isn’t centered on the gifts we receive, but rather, it is anchored deeply in God’s unwavering nature—His goodness, His love, and His almighty power.

In Colossians 1:11-12, we read, “Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.” This scripture reminds us that our gratitude should not be centered on what we’ve been given or what we can see, but rather on our connection with the Almighty. It’s rooted in the realization of His goodness and love towards us—something that remains unshaken amid life’s storms.

In Romans 11:33-36, we are reminded of the depth of God’s ways and wisdom: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!” Understanding that His ways are beyond comprehension allows us to embrace a gratitude that endures. This gracious gratitude is not about the material, but about how profoundly involved God is in our lives, even when we cannot see His hands at work.

When we’ve cultivated the mindset that God is good through every season—good, bad, or indifferent—we begin to carry the heart of faith and gracious gratitude. This act of gratitude isn’t merely about thanking God for what He provides; it’s about recognizing who He is. When life throws us challenges, can we still exclaim, “Thank you, God, for just being God?”  

So today, as you reflect on your life, consider where you stand in your gratitude journey. Whether you’re riding the waves of blessings or facing life’s challenges, remember, gracious gratitude is a gift from the Holy Spirit. It reminds us that our Heavenly Father is always with us and has a plan, even if the path ahead seems dark. Let’s embrace this gracious gratitude and express our thanks for the unstoppable love of God that continues in our lives, day by day. 

As you navigate through the highs and lows of life, ask yourself: “Can I still say thank you, even when things don’t go my way?” and “Do I thank God just for being present in my life?” Embrace gracious gratitude, and let it cultivate a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father, whose love is the ultimate gift we can ever receive.

Read Matthew 5:1-16 for further study.