When I find myself really down in the dumps, there are a couple of questions that really seems to get me back on track: Am I living with a sense of entitlement or gratitude? Do I feel blessed by what God has given me or do I take it for granted?
Two weeks ago, I was blessed to have my second cochlear implant activated at Cleveland Clinic. I was impressed by how much technology has improved in the 5 years since I had my first cochlear implant. It truly is a blessing from God to be able to hear with both ears again effectively. It is probably something I have not been able to do since high school.
There are times I get discouraged and feel sorry for myself. After all, a cochlear implant or a hearing aid for that matter are not cures for hearing loss and they are not exactly the most cosmetically appealing accessory to have on one’s head!
Yet, when I choose gratitude I see how much I have been blessed with. There is no doubt that I will always be able to hear my wife’s voice, my dog’s precocious bark, and someday in the future I will get to hear my child’s first words. This is truly remarkable and I thank God for the medical miracle I receive every single day.
Brothers and sisters, are you choosing gratitude? It is amazing how much more joyful our lives can be when we choose gratitude.
2 Corinthians 4:15: Yes, everything is for your sake, so that grace, as it extends to more and more people, may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.
Written by Pastor Ben Lippert
