“They just don’t appreciate what I do for them.” Perhaps we are intensely struck by the ingratitude of others when it is seen. Do we allow that attitude of ingratitude to halt the flow of our kindness toward such individuals? I must confess the temptation to do so arises far too easily than I might like to admit. Certainly, knowing what we do for others is appreciated, encourages us toward even more willingness to share. However, have we ever forgotten to express our own gratitude to God for what He has continually provided? What would we do if He stopped the flow of His blessings?
Jesus exhorted us toward a higher standard than that of the world when He taught. . .
“(35) But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. (36) Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:35-36 ESV)
The grateful and the ungrateful, the good and the evil, the just and the unjust, the righteous and the unrighteous — we all breathe the same air, benefit from the same rains, and enjoy the same shining sun. (note also Matthew 5:45) It is the goodness and kindness of God that are marks of His greatest glory. That was the glory God revealed to Moses when he asked to see it. (Exodus 33:18-23) Sharing this likeness of God will glorify Him and also be to our glory. Being kind to even the ungrateful has the potential to eventually produce gratitude. Therefore, may we remember the kindness we ourselves have received from God as we graciously extend it to those around us, not necessarily because it is deserved, but because of who and Whose we are!
Have a great day EXPERIENCING THE GLORY OF GODLY GOODNESS!
Carl
