Today’s scripture: Philippians 4:4-7, 11-13 (NRSV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me in this passage? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two before reading on.
My thoughts (Tammy Mills):
Whenever things don’t go my way I immediately go into “disaster mode”. I think life might be over and there can be no good ever to come again. (Well, I am a bit of a drama queen.)
Today, I hear Paul saying to me that I need to get better at seeing things to be grateful for, in every situation. Paul reminds my spirit that I need to learn to be content, even grateful, for the place I find myself in this moment.
The list below is a humorous reminder to be content and look for gratitude in all situations. . . even if I burn the turkey.
According to Craig Boldman and Pete Matthews (authors of Every Excuse in the Book: 714 Ways to Say “It’s Not My Fault”), if you burn the Thanksgiving turkey, here the top ten reasons to be thankful:
- The less turkey Uncle George eats, the less likely he will be to walk around with his pants unbuttoned.
- You’ll get to the desserts quicker.
- No one will overeat.
- Everyone will think it’s Cajun blackened.
- Uninvited guests will think twice next year.
- Your cheese-broccoli-lima-bean casserole will gain newly found appreciation.
- Pets won’t pester you for scraps.
- The smoke alarm was due for a test.
- Carving the bird will provide a good cardiovascular workout.
- After dinner, you can take the bird to the yard and play football.
Question for the day: Do I look at situations in my life through the “lens” of gratitude?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. Use the item above as a starting point, or consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.