Word on the street: Have gratitude, not attitude

Colossians 3:15 – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

Living life with an attitude of gratitude is both healthy and Godly.

The Lord expects us not to be bitter, angry, scared and full of complaints, but to be joyful, peaceful bold and compassionate.

Being grateful is a choice. Thankful people realise and acknowledge that all good and perfect gifts come from God, and that He ought to be thanked for them.

Ungrateful people on the other hand believe that the world owes them something, that their social or economic standing, be it poverty or wealth entitles them to certain benefits.

These kinds of people are often critical. They ridicule, slander and proverbially ‘bite the hand that feeds them’.

What kind of person are you today? You must always remember that there is somebody who looks up to you so much that they will embrace and imitate what you do without thinking twice.

You carry a lot of influence simply because you are made in God’s image.

Therefore instead of criticising other people, let us publicly applaud and celebrate what they do right and privately pray to God to strengthen them in their time of weakness.

I’m sure that’s how all of us would love to be treated.

It begins with you. Think of at least three people who could draw strength and courage from your compliments.

Now I dare you to find them and congratulate them to their face. Let us begin a new trend of true positive living for our children. It is never too late to make a change.

Here’s something to help you get started:

Father God, today I take responsibility and decide to be thankful.

Thank you for my life, family, community and nation.

I am grateful for your Son Jesus Christ.

Help me see and take advantage of opportunities to be both thankful and affirming to others.

I love you because you first loved me. Amen