Seeing the fruits of faith

Over this past year we have shared ideas about planting seeds of faith, growing deep roots of faith, and branching out in faith.  Today we are sharing ideas about maintaining faith through daily practices, and seeing the fruits of faith in outward expressions.

One such expression of the Spirit is the fruit of thankfulness. Thankfulness is an attitude, an attribute, even a worldview that flows from our faith.

A truly grateful person recognises and appreciates what they have as coming from God, rather than complaining about what they do not have. But thankfulness isn’t automatic; it must be learnt, encouraged and cultivated.

Begin by modelling thankfulness yourself; make a point of thanking your own children and let them see you expressing thanks to others. Be conscious to point out to them things for which they can and should give thanks. Help them to see the outward expression of the gift of thankfulness as their faith grows. Where appropriate, have fun helping them preparing thank you messages or gifts.

Teach them that giving thanks is both valuable and enjoyable, in the doing and receiving.

Make time in your household to say thank you to one another. Focus on each person in turn.

Invite people in your household to thank them for positive things they have said and done, and for the ways in which they contribute positively to your home life. You might even like to celebrate this over a special dinner – you could call it a thanksgiving dinner!