We are an incredibly blessed people. Despite the corruption we often see in our local and Federal government, the vast majority of us live in countries where religious freedom is granted to every citizen regardless of their race or creed, and face little persecution from those around us for what we believe in. In fact, my recent polls showed that 71% of the visitors to this site have more than 10 Bibles in their home and that most read It actively throughout their week. It would seem, based on these statistics, that we should be the most Godly generation ever to walk the face of the earth, and yet it appears we have allowed this abundance of spiritual blessings to water down our faith rather than strengthen it. In other words, instead of truly appreciating what God has given us, too often we take those things for granted and become complacent in our walk with God.

“…for unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.”

                    -Luke 12:48

The more God gives us, the more He expects in return. If He gives us free access to His Word, then we haven’t the slightest excuse not to memorize and obey it (Joshua 1:8). If He gives us freedom of speech, then we should be all the more willing to share the Gospel with others (Mark 16:15). If we are blessed with financial resources, then ministering to the poor and needy should come naturally (Proverbs 14:31). Unfortunately, many times we use our virtually unlimited access to the Bible as an excuse to leave it on the shelf, our freedom of speech to justify keeping our mouth shut, and financial resources as a means to cut ourselves off from the needy rather than reaching out to them. As sad as it may be, what was intended to draw us closer to God has actually pushed us further away from Him in many respects.

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

                             -1 Thessalonians 5:18

Throughout the days ahead, let each of us make a conscious effort to thank God for each and every blessing we receive from His hand. When you’re tempted to put off your Bible reading until later in the day, remember the tens of thousands of people who were willing to lay down their life just to advance Its message. When you’d rather sleep in than go to church, think of those in countries such as Africa and Asia who faithfully walk miles in each direction just to attend Sunday services. When it would be easier to shut up than speak up, recall the words of God in 1 Samuel 2:30, “…them that honour me I will honour.” When we start taking note of the countless blessings that come our way every single day, sitting back and doing nothing for the Kingdom of God will hardly be possible. After all, thankfulness is the perfect cure for complacency.