The 45 Second Thanksgiving Rule

“Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16 Holman Christian Standard Bible

Forty five seconds – that is how long most award shows, including the Oscars, give recipients to say “Thanks!” Conveying thanks to the people in our lives who have blessed us and contributed to our success is of paramount importance. We dare not leave anyone out, especially mom, dad, our spouse and God.

I think the 45 second rule is a good one to incorporate in our everyday lives. Giving immediate and heartfelt thanks to those who bless us with some kindness, however great or small, has a multiplied benefit. It is not only an expression of common decency to our fellow human beings, but it is also an acknowledgement of the presence in each of us of the divine. As those who believe in God, we know that “every good and perfect gift is from above” originating from our Heavenly Father (James 1:17 NIV). When others are kind to us, it is a tangible indication of God Himself showering us with His goodness. What better use of the next forty-five seconds is there than to say “thanks,” to both our human and divine benefactors?

This is one of the most transformative ways there is to cultivate a thankful heart to God. Imagine how different our world would be if we made the Apostle Paul’s exhortation to “give thanks in everything” a 45 second rule in our lives. What if we made it our practice to not let any time lapse between an act of kindness shown and a heartfelt expression of thanks to those who show it?

There is no better opportunity to begin to put the 45 second rule into effect than during the celebration of the Thanksgiving season. I want to be the first to put into practice what I am preaching.

Thank you for being a faithful reader of this blog! And thank you God from whom all blessings flow!

Have a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving!