In the classic book Little Women, Mrs March tells this story to her daughters: ‘Once upon a time there were four girls who had enough to eat and drink and wear, a good many comforts and pleasures, kind friends and parents, yet they were not contented. These girls made many excellent resolutions; but they were constantly saying, “If we only had this,” or “If we could only do that.” So they asked an old woman what spell they could use to make them happy and she said, “When you feel discontented, think over your blessings and be grateful.” They decided to try her advice, and soon were surprised to see how well off they were. One discovered that money couldn’t keep shame and sorrow out of rich people’s houses; another found she was a great deal happier with her youth, health and good spirits than a certain fretful, feeble old lady who couldn’t enjoy her comforts; a third that, disagreeable as it was to help get dinner, it was harder still to have to go begging for it. So they agreed to stop complaining and enjoy the blessings they already possessed.’ God is a loving Father, but that doesn’t mean He’ll give us everything we want (or everything we think we need). He doesn’t indulge our every whim, cultivate a sense of entitlement within us, or teach us that the world owes us anything. Being His child doesn’t mean we won’t need to work for things, or that we’ll avoid discipline and sacrifice. Instead, He lets us experience the satisfaction of a job well done, and encourages us to find joy in what we do and appreciate every blessing that comes our way. ‘What can I give the LORD for all the good things he has given to me?’ The answer is: gratitude.