I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13
“I don’t have everything I want…..and that’s a good thing! In order to be grateful for what we do have, there must be things we don’t have. The lack of something is the prerequisite of gratitude. If we have anything and everything we want, it’s impossible to feel genuine gratitude. This is why people with seemingly unlimited resources often seem so discontent.
Today, as I reflect on the things I’m thankful for, I’ll be grateful that I don’t (and can’t) have everything I want. Do I still want some of these things? Absolutely! Will I be excited if I ever get them? 100%! But until I do, or if I don’t, it won’t make me any less grateful for all the wonderful blessings in my life. I cherish each and every one of them.
As you stuff yourself with yummy food, watch sports, play in the backyard, or dive into whatever traditions your family engages in, take a moment to reflect on the beauty of not having all that you want. It’s the prerequisite of gratitude.”
Travis Shelton in “The Prerequisite of Gratitude” the Daily Meaning blogpost for 23 November 2023. I recommend you subscribe here. I read his post daily and commend his work to you!
Have you ever mentored or discipled someone and then found the relationship to become mutually beneficial and so surprisingly encouraging. That’s been my journey over the last decade with Travis Shelton.
Today’s repost of his Daily Meaning post from yesterday is perfect for Black Friday. Is it okay to shop the sales to get good deals on gifts for loved ones? Absolutely (for the rest of the world, it’s what we do in USA today).
Jenni and I love our tradition of waking up early, getting free coffee and donuts at our local Home Depot and purchasing 24 poinsettias for $2 each and giving them away in the days leading to Christmas.
Perhaps you have gift giving traditions linked to Black Friday and the Christmas season? Pursue those. But do so with this word of wisdom from Travis today which echoes the Apostle Paul.
Be content with not having everything you want. Focus not on what you don’t have but give thanks for the things you do have—life in Jesus Christ, special people around you, abundant gifts from the Lord—and enjoy them.
As Travis keenly notes, the prerequisite or what positions us to be grateful is NOT having all the things we want, which really is a good thing, and I would add, while also realizing that in Christ we have everything we need.
Imagined how ruined we would all be if we had everything we wanted. Our desires would overcome and control us. Instead, let’s give thanks for Jesus and all His blessings and enjoy and share them richly.
Thanks for reminding us of the Prerequisite of Gratitude, Travis. Happy Black Friday everyone.