By Linda Tancs
A Jewish prayer on awakening is “Modeh ani l’fanecha,” which literally means “Thanks I give to Your face.” What’s notable about this is that the word “thanks” is rendered first (modeh) rather than “I give thanks” (ani modeh), which is grammatically expected. The intent of this prayer is that gratitude is the first thing that should come out of one’s mouth. In popular culture, we’re always exhorted to have an attitude of gratitude. More importantly, it’s a biblical mandate (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Don’t treat an upcoming holiday like Thanksgiving (in the U.S.) as your big day to be grateful. Make gratitude a habit each day of the year.
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As part of FOOT FORWARD MINISTRIES (a teaching and speaking ministry), Go Forward in Faith represents faith-based meditations for personal and professional growth. Follow us on Twitter @moveonfaith and join the Facebook group @goforwardinfaith.
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