Humans tend to see the world from a me-me-me perspective:

What can we get out of this situation? How can I benefit from this?

 

It’s the same with being thankful.

 

Not that we shouldn’t focus on all that God does for us. That’s important — even critical. But when you think about it, who should benefit most from our gratitude?

 

The answer is: others.

 

When we thank others and recognize the effort they took to do something for us, we should train ourselves to understand how it impacts them, not us. Thank them, and be specific: it takes a good heart and a values-driven person to help others.

 

The gratitude we express is a kind of glue that bonds us together, long after the “thank you” has been delivered.

 

Ephesians 1:15–16 says, “For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.”

 

Let’s pray.

 

Lord, help us even in our gratitude to think of the other person first, and not so much what we gain. Amen.