An interesting moment happened last week at a meeting for leaders from various churches in Greenville. It’s typical at these gatherings to ask each other how things are going at our respective churches, and I’m always eager to hear how God is working around the city. I spoke with a new acquaintance, who, without prompting, gave a rather negative report on his congregation—detailing conflicts that could become big issues, challenges, and more. I paused to pray with him about these concerns (and I think anyone would have done the same). So far, nothing unusual.

Later, at lunch, I spoke with a friend who shared all the ways he was seeing God at work in his congregation. He mentioned challenges, of course, but focused on promising conversations, times of prayer with members, gospel outreach, and the three people they had baptized that month. Again, this didn’t seem out of the ordinary—until he introduced me to a staff member from his church. To my surprise, it was the same man I had prayed with earlier!

We shared a laugh, and I joked that it was as if they attended different churches in the same building. I don’t believe either man was being dishonest. But I do believe one had his eyes on the difficulties, while the other was focused on giving thanks for God’s work. Gratitude provides perspective: it directs our attention to God and His goodness. A thankful heart looks beyond the gifts to the Giver.

Gratitude also humbles us, dissolving pride and sweeping away entitlement. The more we give God credit, the less we take for ourselves. Thanksgiving helps us make less of ourselves and more of God—a challenge for hearts that love attention and applause.

Take a moment to look around and see what God is doing. Then, look up and say, “Thank You!”