1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NLT) Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

A lot of us spend a lot of time playing the “If I” game with ourselves. We make statements such as, if I had more money, I can buy nicer things for my family. If I had a better house, I wouldn’t hear the neighbors next door. If I had a better job, I could have more opportunities for promotion. These statements may be factual, but this game leads to ingratitude.

We may not have all the money we want, but at least we can pay our bills and have the necessities. We may not have the house we want, but praise God, we have a roof over our heads. We may not be working where we ultimately desire, but we’re employed.

There’s nothing wrong with having desires, but don’t let those desires minimize or belittle what God has currently provided. Be grateful.