Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

How one leper can motivate us to return to Christ

I read about the young seminary student, Edward Spencer, and his harrowing ordeal at sea. An accident between two vessels proved disastrous but Edward rescued many by the strength of his muscles. He rescued 17 people. But none thanked him. His labor on that day left him changed physically, forever, and he was often confined to a wheelchair.

How much greater was Christ’s sacrifice on the cross of Calvary, and how apparent our ingratitude could be.

We can be callous, we can be negligent, self-centered—ungrateful as those lepers, the nine out of ten who never returned to praise the Lord for healing them. Never some thanks.

Except for one of the ten who did return, overjoyed, grateful for a new life. Only one of the ten recognized a new life in Christ, healed of disease and affliction, restored in his soul.

What good is it to have optimal health in our lives without a walk near Christ? What good is anything without the credit given to the Lord?
We’re doomed when we aren’t grateful to the Lord.

Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. (Romans 1:21)

I believe in 2018, we would be better if we became intentional about applying one significant change to our lives: going to God with gratitude.

If we’d quit running to people for our comfort and provision, depending on them to love and guide us, we would choose God first and foremost, abiding in His word. Think of all the bitterness and resentment we’d spare ourselves if we’d just go to the perfect God we serve.

I’m awestruck at how loving God is to my family when we were led to homeschool—to give up 2 incomes, a home, a loftier lifestyle, vacations. That life, that upkeep required and demanded much. It becomes the standard of living and that stumbles our walk with the Lord.

Motivate me Lord, to keep my eye off myself and on your purpose. You owe me nothing, and I owe you everything. Your love and mercy are immeasurable. Your grace is amazing. Help me to live accordingly with you as my guide—not the culture, the counterfeits of this world, the severity of circumstances. Help me see that we have what we need, and we are content with what you give. Help me honestly repent when I fail to honor you with thanksgiving and let me always return overjoyed after leaving you when I forget.