I have noticed that many young parents have decided not to instruct their children to give thanks when they receive gifts or when someone does something nice for them. They even boast about this decision on social media and among friends. While I understand their reasoning, I think that this is a disturbing trend. Giving thanks is not only polite, it is mood and attitude altering. When we give thanks for some kindness given to us, our attitude improves and certainly the attitude of the “thanks” recipient lightens and enlivens. On the other hand, failure to give thanks leads to ungratefulness and a feeling of entitlement, thinking that we deserve everything given to us. In reality, we deserve very little and should acknowledge the gift and the giver.
I Chronicles 29:12-13 says, “Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.” Every good gift comes from the hand of our Heavenly Father. Often, God uses people to deliver His gifts to us and we should, therefore, thank them. Remember His gifts and give Him the thanks that are due to Him.
Reluctant Retiree 