Grateful

1 Thessalonians 5:15–18 (ESV)

15 See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Grateful. I am grateful for many things.

In 1997, my Dad died of leukemia. I am grateful. Because he rested from all the painful symptoms., and more so, because he loved God

Later that year, we moved to the countryside in Muranga. We were quite poor, and our Mom struggled to put food on the Table, and pay for school fees. She tried and struggled to put the five of us through high school, through university. In the entire time, about 20yrs, our Mom was always servicing a loan or two - she was usually broke. But she always smiled, always grateful, giving thanks to God for all that she had.

After university, I got a terrible job that paid poorly, and the bosses were mean and malicious. It was a very stressful time, and I fell into depression. I could not eat, I was always in bed, did not want to interact with anyone, but God found me in my bedroom, and brought me back from what was going to be a sad end. I am grateful.

I am grateful that I was able to go to graduate school, learn a little bit more about God’s love for us, about His plans in the past, in the present, and in the future. I am grateful to have jesus in my life, grateful that He chose to save me, even if I was not the best mannered person.

I am grateful that God brought a beautiful Woman in my life. I think quietly about her, and I smile. She has a wonderful personality, and she is constantly thanking me for every little thing I do. I am grateful - to her and especially to God for this great gift.

I am grateful for my daughter, Lily. She’s healthy, strong and with a forceful personality. I am grateful that at this early stage of her life, God is planning to use her for His Glory.

I am grateful that I get to come to Kijabe Girls regularly. It is encouraging and inspiring to see young, eager faces still hungry for God. I am grateful that He will strengthen your faith as the years go along. I am grateful that you have a lovely facility in which you can learn the fundamentals of life. I am grateful that you have teachers who are willing to guide, correct and admonish you as you become more independent and responsible. I am grateful.

For the seniors among you, I am grateful that God has kept you safe, and given you the opportunity to excel in your life. Trust in God, and He will fulfill the desire of your heart - God, through His son Jesus, is the best way to live. And as your time at Kijabe Girls comes to a close, remember Him.

You see, my fellow humans - it is good to be grateful. Say thank you whenever someone serves you, whenever someone encourages you - even when you are corrected or admonished. Be grateful - it is a lovely attitude that keeps you humble, kind and God-like. Our Heavenly Father is kind and loving, and his heart beams with gratitude when we love one another, treat each other with kindness. It is Good to be grateful.

Give thanks with a grateful heart Give thanks to the Holy One Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son

And now let the weak say, "I am strong" Let the poor say, "I am rich Because of what the Lord has done for us"

And now let the weak say, "I am strong" Let the poor say, "I am rich Because of what the Lord has done for us"