“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

(I Thessalonians 5:18 NIV)

A foursome of senior golfers hit the course one morning with noticeably less enthusiasm than they used to have for the game.  “These hills are getting steeper every year,” one groaned as he climbed out of the golf cart.

“These fairways seem to be getting longer too,” another sighed, eyeing the distant green.

“The sand traps are definitely bigger than I remember,” added a third with a shake of his head.

Finally, the oldest and wisest of the group, an 87-year-old who had heard enough grumbling for one morning, smiled and said, “Let’s just be thankful we’re still on this side of the grass!”

It’s easy to slip into complaining, isn’t it?  The aches and pains, the rising costs, the long waits, the small frustrations of everyday life — it all adds up. And before long, our conversations and thoughts can revolve around what’s wrong rather than what’s right. But a complaining spirit never leads to joy; it only magnifies what’s missing and blinds us to what’s good.

Scripture challenges us to a different attitude: “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”  Notice it doesn’t say for all circumstances, but in all circumstances. Gratitude isn’t about pretending everything is perfect — it’s about recognizing that God is still good, even when life isn’t.

A thankful heart can find reasons to rejoice in any situation. The senior golfer was right — each day we’re given is a gift. Every sunrise, every breath, every friendship, every small act of kindness is a reminder that God’s grace continues to surround us.

When we cultivate gratitude, our perspective shifts. Instead of focusing on what’s fading, we see what’s enduring. Instead of counting our complaints, we count our blessings — and realize they far outnumber our frustrations.

So the next time you’re tempted to grumble, pause and remember: you’re still on this side of the grass. And that means God still has a purpose for you, something to teach you, and blessings yet to give.

Prayer: Gracious Father, thank you for the gift of life and for the countless blessings I often overlook. Forgive me when I complain instead of giving thanks. Teach me to see your goodness in every situation and to live each day with a heart full of gratitude. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Alan Smith
Reprinted with permission from Alan Smith’s Thought For the Day