TY

When I was growing up, my mother taught my five brothers and me to send thank-you cards for Christmas and birthday presents. We did not think twice about it; it was something we just did. Over the years, we have moved from handwritten notes to electronic means to express thanks. For instance, there is the TY (thank you) we text to people who have done something for us. Also, it is not uncommon when using email for prompts to pop up that say, “Thank you” for some information we received or some act of kindness.

When I tell the children’s story at church, I like to encourage the children to say, “Thank you,” as they collect the lambs’ offering. People like to feel appreciated, even if they are just dropping a few coins into the basket. A nice smile and a friendly thank you can go a long way to encourage generosity. Unfortunately, over the years, it seems that etiquette has fallen away. It is always sad to see ingratitude. This leads me to wonder: If we humans notice the lack of gratitude, how might God feel? The Bible addresses the importance of expressing gratitude, especially toward God, who is the Source of “every good and perfect gift” (James 1:17, NIV).

Since we are told that “if we ask anything according to His [the Father’s] will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14, NASB), maybe we should phrase our prayers slightly differently. What if instead of saying, “Father, please save my children,” we say, “Father, thank You for doing whatever it takes to bring my child closer to You.” It may sound strange to us to say thank you in advance. But not so with God. God wants us to believe that He hears us and will do what He knows is best. While He may surprise us in how He answers, we can show our belief that He will answer in His way and His time. Being thankful is good for us. When we express our thanks and gratitude to God, it can bring smiles to our hearts and our faces. “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22, NIV). It seems to me that being thankful not only gives joy to the receiver but brings joy to the giver. So let us be generous in saying “Thank you” as often as possible to those around us and especially to God.

Sharon (Clark) Mills