1 Thessalonians 5:18 (ESV) — 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Psalm 118:24 (ESV) — 24 This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

One of the best mindfulness exercises an individual can do is to add an attitude of daily gratitude. It is obvious that we are the most ungrateful generation in recent history. Many are wanting a big chunk of their “pie” – without any forethought of payment or cost. I clearly recall a broken soul crying: “I just want mine; I just want mine; I just want mine”.

“I just want mine” seems to be the mantra of our time. Unfortunately, nothing is free – except empty promises. So, how do we get back to reality? My journey back was through education. The year I turned 25 I only had a few college hours. It was time for a serious talk with self. “Neville”, I said, “it is time for you to pay the piper”. So, I went back to school – this time with the realization that I had to make it work.

I accepted that no one owed me a living – or anything, for that matter. I also had to realize that everyone, except my Heavenly Father, would let me down. So, instead of wasting time with “poor me” self-talk, I had to learn to be grateful.

Friend, what possessions are you grateful for? Are you grateful for the state you live in? Are you grateful for your vocation? Are you grateful for your daily food, house, car, computer/tablet/phone, etc.

Who are the people in your life you are most grateful for? Who are the family that love you? Who are the friends who “get you”? Who is the significant person that lets you know you are not alone? Are you grateful for the church elders you serve under? Are you grateful for committees/boards you serve on?

What blessings came your way in the last week? The gifts you have received. The people you worship with. The forgiveness from God.

We are a blest people. What a privilege to drive down the road and see signs that say, “workers needed”. We are blest to walk into stores laden with products.

And so, along with Ezra, we turn in thankful praise to our God: Ezra 3:11 (ESV) … For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever…