These words have been playing over and over in my head …
Come, Thou Fount of every blessing
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace
Along with the words come the reminder to be grateful … over and over …
O God, teach us to feel what joys are these!
How dear these pleasures momently renewed!
Teach us to humbly fall upon our knees
In speechless praise, in silent gratitude;
These are the hours, O Lord of Solitude,
When hearts in love must upward turn to Thee,
With every comfort, every charm imbued,
And all that’s peaceful; when tranquillity
Steals softly o’er the bosom and lulls its rolling sea.
~Lennox Amott
A couple of years ago I had the opportunity to hear a psychology professor discuss his research on gratitude. “Far from being a warm, fuzzy sentiment, gratitude is morally and intellectually demanding,” Emmons says. “It requires contemplation, reflection and discipline. It can be hard and painful work.”
Emmons explains, “The French expression “je suis reconnaissant” is translated as a three-part construal: (1) “I recognize” (intellectually), (2) “I acknowledge” (willingly), and (3) “I appreciate” (emotionally). Only when all three come together is gratitude complete.”
I don’t know Emmons’ spiritual background. It’s interesting to me that there is a study of positive psychology. The scripture says, “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” … giving thanks … God’s will!
