UNGRATEFUL AND UNGODLY

“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy” (2 Timothy 3:1-2, emphasis added)
 

Of the many marks of the last days, two jump out at me at this season—being ungrateful and ungodly.  They go together.  If someone is unthankful, it follows that he or she is unholy.  That these follow in sequence in the text above is intended.
 

Have we come to the “perilous times” we call “the last days”?  If the pervasive spirit of ingratitude is any indication, we are far along on that deadly course toward God’s judgment.  I have never seen a generation that feels as entitled as this one.  They may not express gratitude, but are eager to exclaim gripes—if they are not pampered and indulged.  Every whim is to be fulfilled—and quickly—or extreme displeasure is expressed.  Even when their needs are met, have you noticed how few will do more than a grunt, and often not that—no acknowledgement of the deed or utterance of thankfulness.  Many people working in “customer service” act like they have done you a favor to take your money.  It is a generalization, but not an overreach, to say that many of a younger generation are particularly possessed by a lack of gratitude.  Of course, we are to be blamed for failing to teach them to be thankful.
 

If it bothers me, I know it angers a Holy and Benevolent God, who lavishes us with love that is undeserved and pours out blessing upon blessing.  Yet, we scarcely look up—too busy consuming what we have and complaining about what we do not have.  It is time to repent—I mean NOW!  In this Thanksgiving season, take time from food and football to lift up your voice and rejoice in God’s goodness.  He is good—all the time!  He gives and gives and not just on the fourth Thursday in November.  But, it is a day to remind us to rejoice in Him and His abundant grace—and I pray that we will!
 

What do you have to be thankful for?