Signs of an Ungrateful Heart
Did you know that research has shown that gratitude leads to increased
happiness, improved sleep, better health and my favorite, according to a Harvard-
led analysis, longer life. Since gratitude has so many benefits, it makes sense to
watch out for signs of an ungrateful heart, doesn’t it? In this article we will
examine two signs of an ungrateful spirit and then what to do about it.
Maybe the most obvious sign of an ungrateful heart is complaining. When we
complain what we are really saying is God is not meeting our needs to our
satisfaction. Complaining is serious business in God’s economy (Numbers 21).
Another significant sign is impatience. When we are impatient, we are acting as if
God is too slow to meet our needs. We forget that God’s timing is always perfect.
He does all things well, in His time. Impatience is a sign of a lack of faith, as well.
So, if we discover that we have given in to an ungrateful spirit by being impatient
and complaining, the first thing we must do is admit it and repent. God will always
forgive us. The worst thing we can do is try to justify our sin by saying we’re just a
type A personality, we’re high-strung, or just ignoring it.
Once we confess and turn from our sin, God will not help us if we remain in
rebellion, we are then in a position to receive help from the Holy Spirit.
One of the best ways of overcoming ingratitude is by making a “gratitude list.”
Write down all the things, big or small, that God has done for you. From the
breath He gives every day to the home you have, family, plenty of food, etc. Then
thank God out loud for all the blessings on your list. Do this every day.
Another way to prime our “gratitude pump” is to meditate on the cross of Jesus
and what He sacrificed for your salvation. Thank Him for suffering for you.
Finally, reach out to those less fortunate than you with real help, food, clothing,
babysit their children, or mowing their lawn and God will change your heart.