Today is the holiday set aside to celebrate our nation’s independence and the freedoms we are privileged to share in this country. For many people today is a time to barbecue or picnic, watch parades and relax with family and friends. Along with the food and fun, it is important to be thankful.

It is easy to begin to take good times for granted as the natural order of things or as somehow our due. However, everything that happens in life is filtered through God’s permissive will. We are instructed in His word to pray for God’s will to be done in everything and to give thanks for it.

When something good comes our way, whether achieved through hard work, good fortune or a lucky coincidence, we need to thank God. He has the might and the right to prevent it and deserves to be acknowledged for His benevolence.

Most of us in America who have not served in the armed forces have done little to deserve or to preserve our freedoms, but we dare not take them for granted.

Cultivate an attitude of gratitude for every good thing.  Thank God for allowing these blessings in your life, though undeserved, and recognize how precious they are.