Values Quotes – Charles Finney on Thankfulness

Today’s quote is from Charles Finney, a leader in the second great awakening and father of modern revivalism.

Finney makes this profound quote:
“A state of mind that sees God in everything is evidence of growth in grace and a thankful heart.”

That’s a powerful statement and one we should all carefully ponder as we look to celebrate thanksgiving here in America.

As a differentiating value, Thankfulness means showing gratefulness or appreciation; and warm friendly feelings of gratitude.

So to whom do you show your gratefulness, appreciation or gratitude? Your spouse? Your parents? Your boss or co-workers? Your friends and neighbors?

What about to God, the creator of everything?

Finney’s quote wisely points out that when we see God in everything – and that everything comes from God – then there’ll be evidence of a thankful heart.

A wonderful song often sung at this time of Thanksgiving is “Count your blessings, name them one by one.” Do we appreciate our freedom? Are we grateful for the peace we experience? Do we value the opportunity to live and work wherever we choose? Do we say ‘thank you’ for every meal we eat?

Do we show our gratitude for family and friends and that we don’t have to go through life alone? If you can read, if you can talk, and if you can think up an idea and share it with others, there is reason to be thankful.

So, I wish YOU a most blessed Thanksgiving where you too can recognize that God is in everything, and everything is from God.

 

Today’s value was selected from the “Appreciation-Kindness” category, based on the e-book Developing Your Differentiating Values.