When I was younger, I can remember times when I would beg and beg for something I wanted. It could be a candy bar at the grocery store, a new outfit, or even permission to do something with my friends. The problem was that if I did get the candy, outfit, or permission, I would say a quick "thanks" and go on my way (usually ready to ask for the next thing!) I was thinking about how often we do the exact thing with the Lord. We will pray over and over for something we want or "need". When the Lord finally blesses us, we quickly move onto the next request. It seems to me that our asking and gratefulness should be a little more balanced.
A good example of this principle is found in Luke 17. Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem when 10 lepers begged him for mercy and healing. To them this was probably the biggest need in their lives. They were social outcasts who lived in pain every day. Jesus used his Almighty power to heal them from this terrible disease, and then told them to go show themselves to the priest. This well known Bible story continues as only 1 out of the 10 healed men turned to come back to the Lord. He fell on his face and poured out a heart of thanks to his healer. I wonder if the other 9 even noticed. Weren't they a little embarrassed that they hadn't thought to go back and thank Jesus? Whatever their reasoning, they missed out on an opportunity to fulfill the command given later in scripture. "At all times and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father." Ephesians 5: 20
We can't help but be thankful on a holiday called "Thanksgiving"!! But what about the other 364 days of the year? I hope we can all say that we are the one who has the opportunity to thank God for the myriad of blessings he gives us each day of the year! Happy Thanksgiving!