Being Grateful is a Choice
An Indian sunset as seen on the Grace Bible College campus.
Choose Gratefulness: A Reflection from India Before Christmas
Being grateful is a choice.
As much as I love seeing the words thankful and gather splashed across church bulletins and front door signs, the annual season of gratitude tends to fade quickly. In just a few weeks, gratefulness exits the stage while Christmas marketing crowds in with lights, sound, and urgency.
But for now, I’m savoring the soft browns, golds, and burgundies, the apple cinnamon scents, the prayers around thanksgiving tables. Maybe, like me, you’re content to linger a little longer with falling leaves—and most of all, with a spirit of gratefulness.
Sunset Gratitude in Central India
Right now, I’m watching the sunset from the Grace Bible College campus. Indian sunsets are absolutely stunning. Breathtaking golds, magentas, blues, and violets sweep across the sky, framed by silhouettes of trees and village rooftops.
For decades, John and I watched these sunsets together, often in silence, simply saying, “Thank you, Lord.” It takes only a moment of reflection to realize that gratefulness is a high priority to God. While human praise can feel self-serving, God’s worthiness is infinite. He truly deserves every ounce of our awe, our worship, and our thanksgiving.
Scripture Reminders to Choose Gratefulness
Below are several verses that remind us to choose gratefulness—whether in moments of celebration or when trimming a Christmas tree, whether in stillness or stress.
God is good and sovereign. He knows what you’re going through.
Choose gratefulness in these moments.
God’s peace is available to your heart today.
Choose gratefulness in these moments.
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Ephesians 5:20 (NIV)
God delights in your thanksgiving and praise.
Choose gratefulness in these moments.
God is greater than your needs. He hears and protects you.
Choose gratefulness in these moments.
Blessings and love,
Dee