Harmony will Grow in Thankful Hearts
“God has two dwellings—one in heaven, and the other in a meek and thankful heart.” Isaac Walton
None of us walk through life without moments of feeling irritated. But hurt feelings, left unattended, often start a quarrel. There are a lot of things we can’t control, however we can choose to be thankful people, and not contentious. When we do, irritations lessen. Grace shows up and we are able to move beyond the offense to forgiving the offender. In spite of what took place, harmony is now given room to remain intact or be restored. It all hinges on whether we exercise thankful hearts.
Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out. Proverbs 17:14 NIV
Those Heart Attitudes Matter
Perhaps you are like me. Interruptions come every day. More often than I’d like to admit, these pesky intruders have a way of annoying me. Since I don’t see that as a good thing, I’ve begun to take a hard look at my own attitudes. Do they align with the attitude of Christ? If not, it’s time to make adjustments.
Seven things we can do:
- Expect interruptions. It’s not “if” they will come, but “when”.
- Commit Scripture verses to memory. It’s amazing how the Holy Spirit brings them back to mind when needed.
- Remember Jesus was also interrupted. And He was not annoyed. Pray for a willingness to be interrupted. (Mark 5:21-34 NIV)
- Be ready to meet the interruption with a pleasing response. Forethought limits spontaneous reactions.
- Consider interruptions as God-appointed moments. Thoughts will process very differently.
- Desire to create harmony knowing it is an outcome that will please the Lord.
- Choose to live thankful. A heart of gratitude is a heart at peace.
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had. Romans 15:5 NIV
Thankful Isn’t Always Easy
We all get out of sorts from time-to-time. Life does throw unpleasant stuff at us that feels unfair, and at best unexpected. Maybe it’s a financial setback, a health problem, a strained relationship, or an auto accident. We won’t experience smooth sailing every day, but we can still possess thankful heart attitudes. The goal is to persevere, knowing God already knows our circumstances. Harmony does grow when we choose to prioritize its presence.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15 NIV
Prayer: Lord, fill our hearts with an abundance of thankful thoughts. We are so blessed. Transform our heart attitudes into the likeness of Christ. We fail and yet You forgive. When interruptions and irritations come our way, give us a strong desire to move self out of the way and apply Your Word. Help us to create harmony no matter the circumstance. Amen
Coaches Corner:
If heart attitudes are causing you trouble, talking with a relationship coach can help you take those next steps forward. The first 30 minute session is free. https://www.rebuildingfamilies.net/a-life-coach-wants-to-help-you-achieve-your-goals/
