Thank You!

Johnson Oatman, Jr. wrote the hymn “Count Your Blessings” and had it published in 1897. That was long before scientists had studied the health benefits of giving thanks. Mr. Oatman didn’t need scientists to confirm what he learned through experience—saying thank you regularly improves your state of mind. Today’s scientists have also proven the activity has physical benefits as well. But you must say “thank you” more often than once a year to gain the benefits.

The Bible says, “And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20, NLT). That means even offer thanksgiving in the tough times. I know that’s hard; I’ve had to do it. I don’t necessarily thank God for sending tough times. I thank him for being in the midst of it all and giving me the strength to get through it.

How would you feel if no one ever said thank you to you for anything you had done or given to them? How often do you say thank you to family, friends or coworkers? How often do you say thank you to God? I have learned to regularly give thanks to God by spending prayer time doing only that—saying thank you for my health, my family, the weather, anything and everything. I’m going try to make it a daily prayer by saying “thank you” for at least one thing when I get up in the morning and when I go to bed at night. How about you?

Debra L. Butterfield © 2010