Please and Thank You

When I was a child, my mother and father taught me the importance of the words ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. Over the past 60 plus years, I’ve learned again and again just how powerful these words can be both in conversation and in prayer.

Reflecting recently on my daily prayers, I found myself using the word ‘please’ frequently—very frequently in fact. I used the words ‘thank you’, too, but not as often. I realised that my petitions and requests were far more numerous than my expressions of gratefulness and appreciation for the blessings God has already provided. Wanting to change that, I decided to begin silently saying ‘Thank you!’ throughout the day-every time I sense God’s presence or every time I experience one of his blessings.

As a result of a more purposeful focus on my expressions of gratitude, the power of those simple words my parents taught me decades ago has been renewed. My silent acknowledgements of God’s boundless blessings throughout the day are a vivid and pleasant reminder of his care and constant presence. As we say please and thank you to God, we are continually reminded of his amazing grace, peace and steadfast love that endure for ever!

Prayer: O God, help us cultivate a spirit of thankfulness that we may forever remain grateful for your gifts—even life itself. Amen