Dangers of Ingratitude (Part II)

 “’If you will not hear, and if you will not take it to heart, to give glory to My name,’ Says the Lord of hosts, ‘I will send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings. Yes, I have cursed them already, because you do not take it to heart.’” (Malachi 2:2, New King James Version).

This is the key Bible verse for the “Come and See” devotional today.

The first part of this series of devotionals showed that ungratefulness invites curses. The effects of curses are often very adverse because they erode peace, joy and life. Every act of ingratitude is akin to robbery and nobody can dispute that anyone who steals is under a curse. For example, in the case of Prophet Zechariah’s vision of the flying scroll, the Bible states: “’I will send out the curse,’ says the Lord of hosts; ‘It shall enter the house of the thief and the house of the one who swears falsely by My name. It shall remain in the midst of his house and consume it, with its timber and stones.’” (Zechariah 5:4, New King James Version).

Another danger associated with ungratefulness is that of being unable to come into the presence of God. In Revelations 5:10 we learn that we all have been made ‘kings and priests’ unto God. How would a priest function if he is barred from entering into the presence of God through ingratitude?

Thanksgiving is the key to the gatehouse of God’s throne. This is made clear in the Book of Psalms where King David says: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give him thanks! Praise his name!” (Psalm 100.4, New English Translation). Again, in the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus gave the direction to be followed during prayers by saying: “in this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.” (Matthew 6:9, New King James Version).

We are often at risk of overlooking the many invaluable benefits that we enjoy through God’s unending mercies. With reference to our daily needs, Jesus Christ assured us saying: “for after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.” (Matthew 6:32, New King James Version). Similarly, we read: “and my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19, English Standard Version).

To conclude: we must continue to reflect upon God’s faithfulness at all times and thank the LORD. Gratitude comes from the heart, as King David said: “I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever.” (Psalms 86:12, English Standard Version). Our appreciation must be wholehearted and not just a daily or weekly religious obligation: we must avoid anxiety and meditate upon the many amazing things God has done for us. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, New King James Version).

Let us pray: “Father, I am very sorry for every attitude of ingratitude towards you. By your mercy, give me an appreciative heart. For that which You have done so far in my life, I am thankful,” in Jesus’ Mighty Name, Amen.

This message was brought to you by Evangelical Ministries International (EMI). We know this message has been a blessing to you. Please share your testimonies with us by visiting our website www.evangelicalministries.org or contact us on info@evangelicalministries.org. God bless you!