We know that “attitude” is a significant component in a person’s ability to succeed. If you have played sports or worked in the business world, you have heard and seen plenty about attitude. Businesses spend significant amounts of money to have speakers address the issue of attitude. Locker rooms are plastered with posters espousing a positive attitude.
The apostle Paul instructed believers that prayer must be offered in an “attitude of gratitude.” “Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving” (Col 4:2). Prayer and praise are the oxygen that the Christian breathes. Thus we are not surprised that Paul would exhort us to “devote” ourselves to prayer. As you read the book of Acts you will discover that the early disciples devoted themselves to prayer (1:14, 2:42). Prayer is the language of the redeemed and for that reason it is always offered in the attitude of thanksgiving. The believer is aware that all of life is a gift of grace and thus thanksgiving marks our ongoing attitude.
In Romans chapter one Paul gives us a marked contrast with the unbeliever who has seen the things of God and yet did not honor Him as God. The fact that they did not give thanks was the evidence that they did not honor God as the author of all good gifts. This lack of gratitude leads to futile speculation and the darkening of one’s heart. Gratitude is the evidence that one has recognized the grace of God.
Take time today to give thanks for all God has done for you. Thank Him first for your salvation and let it flow from there. Save adequate time at the dinner table to practice the attitude of gratitude.
Prayer: Father, You are the author of all life. I give you thanks for life and for the gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus. Amen