The Story

Each day, we can find reasons to complain, and we can also find reasons to be thankful. The attitude we use to live our lives does not depend solely on our circumstances, but depends on where our hearts are turned. Complaining begins when we place ourselves at the center of our lives. When our desires are not fulfilled, our expectations are not met, or our feelings are hurt, we often become angry and complain. Sin causes us to think that we deserve certain things and makes us blind to the many blessings that God has already given us. But the good news turns our eyes away from ourselves to God. Before God, we have nothing to boast about, but He has shown us great mercy by giving us Jesus Christ, His only Son, to forgive our sins and receive us as His children. Gratitude is not an emotion that arises only when circumstances improve, but it is the result of a life that acknowledges the grace of God. The more we look to the cross, the less we complain, and gratitude and praise grow. Our Father, full of mercy and kindness, I praise you because you have given me many good things, even though I do not deserve them. Especially, I thank you for the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Please forgive me when I complain easily and forget the blessings I have received. Thank you, Jesus Christ, who made sinners children of God. May the Holy Spirit change my heart to remember the gift of the cross and praise Him with thanksgiving and praise in every situation, praying in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.