Throughout life’s ups and downs, it can be difficult to maintain our focus on gratitude. If we reflect on the life of Jesus, it is amazing that He managed to always be grateful! Through persecution, beatings, and even death, He focused on the wonderful things in life, even during the difficult times. We call this the “Jesus Mindet”. Let’s explore four major examples today!

Thankful for Open, Child-like Minds

Jesus lived his life traveling and spreading the Word however, not all people were receptive. Certain cities were particularly closed off such as Bethsaida and Capermaum. Even in times such as these, Jesus found reason to be thankful.

“O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for… revealing them to the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way.”

Luke 10: 13-21

He focused one the open minds. He thanked the Lord for the child-like faith he found in others. It is with free faith and complete surrender that we open our hearts to the Lord. This is necessary for us to learn trust in the Lord. Even though our earthly life has taught us to be cautious, we can trust the Lord with our hearts.

Thankful for Answered Prayers

Jesus prayed several times and of course, he gives thanks. Regardless of how his prayers were answered, and before He even knew what the answer was, Jesus thanked the Lord. When He raised Lazarus, he prayed a thankful prayer before he even knew if he would be sucessful, trusting that the Lord’s answer would be the best.

“Took away the stone. And Jesus lfited up his eyes and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me.”

John 11:41

We pray for goals, hopes, and dreams. The difficult part is not making the prayer but in trusting the Lord to answer them according to His plan. We may want things and events but we have to have faith that the Lord’s judgement is superior to ours. So regardless of the answer, we are thankful.

Following His Example

Thanksgiving is upon us this month and it is the perfect time to start following His example. Regardless of the difficulties in life and because of them, we give thanks to the Lord. We know He will answer our prayers and take care of us.

Take a moment and think about when you give the Lord thanks. Once a week? Only when you get that promotion? When you eat? All of those times are wonderful! However, we need to remember to give thanks in between too. That guy who cut you off didn’t hit you, you woke up this morning, the toaster that you used for breakfast is powered by electricity, etc. He gave us life! Thank you, Jesus!!

A Simple Prayer of Gratitude 

Thank you, Lord, for the blessings you have bestowed on my life. You have provided me with more than I could ever have imagined. You have surrounded me with people who always look out for me. You have given me family and friends who bless me every day with kind words and actions. They lift me up in ways that keep my eyes focused on you and make my spirit soar.

Also, thank you, Lord, for keeping me safe. You protect me from those things that seem to haunt others. You help me make better choices and provide me with advisors to help me with life’s difficult decisions. You speak to me in so many ways so that I always know you are here.

And Lord, I am so grateful for keeping those around me safe and loved. I hope that you provide me with the ability and sense to show them every day how much they matter. I hope that you give me the ability to give to them the same kindness they have provided to me.

I am extremely grateful for all of your blessings in my life, Lord. I pray that you remind me of just how blessed I am and that you never allow me to forget to show my gratitude in prayer and returned acts of kindness.

Thank you, Lord.

- By Kelli Mahoney