Day 3 - An Attitude of Gratitude 30-Day Challenge: Write down one thing you're thankful to God for and do something specific to return the kindness.
“What have you done for me lately?” Christian or not, most of us remember this song recorded by Janet Jackson in the late 80s.
The lyrics speak of a man who once lavished his girl with everything (gifts, dinner dates, and compliments) but eventually stopped. Hence the question to the popular hit.
So, how in the world do I tie this song and it's title to the Bible?
Well, I ask you to consider the title/question and it's intent in your everyday life. Most of us may have had grounds to ask that question of others.
Today, I challenge us to ask ourselves two similar questions with a twist:
- What has God done for me lately?
- What have I done for God lately?
The What has God done for me lately? part, is easy. Inhale—still alive. If you are reading this—you can see and you are in your right mind. Without question, the list of what God has done for us (in the form or His many blessings) goes on and on.
As for the What have I done for God lately? part, Leviticus 22:29 reminds us of this, "And when you offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving to the Lord, offer it of your own free will."
In the Old Testament, a sacrifice of thanksgiving was a way to express gratefulness to God for His many blessings. This part connects to our "Attitude of Gratitude" Challenge.
Notice the word sacrifice. The verse suggests that our expressions of thanksgiving should not simply be lip service. Our gratitude should include giving up something of value (sacrifice) to show our appreciation.
So, when you tell God "Thank You!" remember Janet’s song with a slight twist. Then, ask yourself What Have I Done For God Lately? in order to prove how thankful I really am.