“For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish hearts were darkened.” Romans 1:21

Do you ever find yourself unintentionally responding to others with negativity? I like to think of myself as uplifting and optimistic, but when I really started concentrating on my words, I noticed some un-affirming and pessimistic tendencies. If someone brought attention to a specific blessing, I might respond, “Yeah, but it could be better if ____.” When my husband ran a time-consuming errand and forgot one item: “How could you forget ____?” Or (and maybe other ladies can relate to this), I received a compliment and replied, “Seriously? I look so bad today!” All of these can be directly translated as ingratitude.

Being ungrateful is not a new concept. Humanity has always had a way of forgetting God once their needs and wants were met. Adam and Eve had all the spoils of the garden to themselves, yet still yearned for more (Genesis 3). The Israelites were led out of slavery and promised a land flowing with milk and honey, yet they turned to idols (Exodus 32:8). Though we were created in His image and given a natural instinct of worship, we have fallen further from truth and let human pride prevail. It’s not about appreciation — it’s about what we think we deserve, and that is the clear sign of a foolish, darkened heart.

When we are purposeful in showing gratitude and careful of the ways we communicate, we exemplify Thanksgiving. This month, really focus on your responses to those around you and be mindful of the attitude you carry. If you know God as the creator of the universe, honor Him as such with praise, humbleness, and a simple, yet meaningful “thank you.”