Thankfulness Cures Discontentment Anna Darlene Edmondson
“You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing (Psa 145:16 ESV)
Complaining is symptomatic of deeper problems. Revealing a lack of trust in God. Ingratitude displays an emotional rejection of His providence and purpose for our lives. However, when we offer thanks for daily provisions, our attitude changes from dissatisfaction to worship. It’s the Father’s merciful grace and good pleasure to (daily) load us with benefits, shepherding along the way (Psa 68:19).
During forty years of wilderness wanderings, continual complaints and accusing murmurings erupted within Moses’ congregation. Although God provided manna, quail, water, clothes, and shoes that never wore thin, they continued grumbling and whining. Foolish back-stabbings sorely vexed Moses’ spirit. Yet faithfully, Moses stayed the course, interceding regularly. He taught the Hebrew race that grateful hearts open a way for enduring satisfaction, enjoyment of the Promised Land, and a future for God’s covenant-remnant.
Amy Carmichael, missionary to India, discovered that ‘in acceptance lies peace’ as she mothered abused children. She understood the importance of a humble heart and goodness toward the unwanted. By simply accepting God’s will for our lives brings serenity that passes human understanding. Another wonderful role model, the Apostle Paul, learned how to be content with nothing or everything. He kept eternity’s goal in sight, pressing forward to the high mark of his calling. Applying God’s strength and sufficiency, he rose above every dire situation with plenty or little (Phil 4:11-13).
No doubt, difficult journeys for Moses, Amy, and Paul, but nail-scarred hands carried them. Works the same for us. Not only during this Thanksgiving Season in the United States, but every day of the year, we can achieve contentment. Plus, incorporating a life of steadfast gratitude benefits those around us.
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