THANKFULNESS is one of the most under appreciated of virtues. Being Thankful makes me feel better about everything that surrounds me. It makes me think about and see the good that has come my way. In other words, being thankful makes me happier, more content, more confident, more loving, more kind to others, and it elevates my faith.

Being thankful makes me a nicer person and more pleasant to be around. Consequently, a thankful person will probably have more and better friends. Thankful people tend to appeal to others of a like attitude. It is a pleasure to just be around thankful people. They are uplifting and encouraging, and what's more—they appreciate you.

Of most importance is the fact that God wants us to be thankful. He has done, and continues to do great things for us. If we are not grateful for his blessings, God is not pleased with our attitude.

Now, somebody will say, "Life is not all a bed of roses." Yes, it is true, we all have some problems. And we will until Jesus sets up his kingdom on Earth. Now, I can dwell on my problems or I can dwell on blessings. Dwelling on my problems just drags me down mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Dwelling on my problems tends to create new problems and worsen the present ones, but dwelling on my blessings and being thankful for them has an amazing way of diminishing my problems. Being thankful gives me more power to deal with the negative things in my life.

People enjoy doing things for thankful people, but nobody is interested in doing things for those that are not thankful. Here are just a few of the things that I am grateful for:

1. The revelation of the One Almighty God resident in Jesus Christ.
2. The revelation of the power in the name Jesus.
3. The new birth experience consisting of baptism in Jesus' name and the baptism of the Holy Ghost.
4. The substitution death of Jesus at Calvary.
5. The availing power of His blood to cover sins.
6. The mercy and grace of God to me.
7. The hope of everlasting life in heaven.
8. Deliverance from sin, the power of sin, and from hell.
9. The privilege of prayer-access to the Almighty.
10. Answer to prayer.
11. The family of God, the church.
12. The Bible, which is the very Word of God.
13. A daily, personal, intimate walk with God.
14. The fact that I am called and chosen of God, elect in Christ
15. His protection, His keeping power, His provision.
16. His direction.
17. His correction, yes, even His chastisement.
18. The anticipation of His second coming.
19. His glory and majesty.
20. His abiding love, care and presence.
21. Those that He has put in my life to minister to me.

This list is far, far, far from complete, but it is sufficient to lift me up from any discouragement, despondency, or depression. It is sufficient enough to enable me to face tomorrow with faith and win my battles. This list is sufficient enough to give me joy with the realization that I am exceedingly blessed by a God that loves me.

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS. BE THANKFUL FOR THEM.