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“Even in the worst of circumstances, the grateful of heart are able to find sources of joy and inspiration.”

A thought by Erwin Raphael McManus (2003-09-04) from his book, Uprising: A Revolution of the Soul (Kindle Location 1808). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.

Margaret and I were talking about some people we know and the horrible life they have.  Life can be tough.  But some people are miserable in their tough lives and even their good lives while others live with an anticipation and hope.  Why is that?

What do you see in your life?  Do you see despair or do you see joy and inspiration.  How grateful you are goes a long way in determining your perspective.  Another way to say it is, what glasses you see through determines what you see.

Think of the statement, “I don’t deserve this.”  There are two ways you can say that.  I can say it with the idea in mind that I am better than this.  No way should I be going through this.  I DON'T DESERVE THIS!!!  It is with a haughty feeling sorry for my-self attitude.  God will not reward that attitude.  You will be miserable. 

Then there is the feeling of unworthiness but gratefulness. You are so grateful for God being with you through whatever you are going through.  You are grateful for God's goodness even when life is tough.  In that He gives you strength and joy even in the difficult time you are going through.  And He will give you wisdom, direction and inspiration to bring you through the difficult time. 

So what do you see?
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