Charming Is Being Grateful

Yan Wing（殷穎）

“Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced….”

Psalms 105: 3-5

The words “thank you” have become our most popular catchphrase. It’s often used at the end of TV news reports or to end a sentence. But these words mean nothing to listeners and speakers if not spoken in good faith.

Yet we human beings do know and need to be grateful. We are grateful in times of: timely help during desperation, being greatly satisfied, and observing the awesome nature.

I have read an article, written by a famous author who has no religious background, depicting a gorgeous scene of sunset. At the peak of awe, he knelt down in appreciation of nature. This is a sign of man’s inner search for God.

Christians often say “Thank God” in their talks without meaning it. When the language of gratitude has become mechanical, it’s meaningless. One story from the Bible exemplifies this clearly. Both Cain and Abel presented their thanksgiving offerings to God. Cain’s was from the field and Abel’s offering was a lamb. God fancied Abel’s offering, not Cain’s. Cain ended up killing his brother Abel due to his furious jealousy! I believe that God chose Abel’s offering simply based on Abel’s heart, not the substance of the offering.

King David wrote the following poem out of his remorse confession: “You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.” (Psalms 51:16-17)

Christians should be grateful for everything besides salvation. A heart of gratitude produces love, patience, kindness, faithfulness, goodness, etc. A grateful heart is the nutrient of life, which makes life strong and perfect.

King David expressed his gratitude by dancing and singing: “Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp! Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe! Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals!” (Psalms 150:3-5)

Be grateful; be charming!