Article January 18, 1947 Issue

The Spirit of Gratitude

MINNIE H. GRISWOLD

Gratitude may be defined as the spirit of thankfulness that springs spontaneously and joyously from the heart for benefits received. The Bible has for centuries enriched and uplifted the thoughts of men through the expressions of gratitude poured out by patriarchs, prophets, and apostles. For instance, the Psalmist exclaims (Ps. 107:8,9,43): "Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.... Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the loving-kindness of the Lord."

We, likewise, should delight in the Lord. How naturally then would we turn to Him, take Him at His word, and find refuge in time of trouble. The well-loved ninety-first Psalm, a favorite with Christian Scientists, is a blending of praise and confidence expressing the sense of security of all who put their trust in the goodness of the Lord. Christian Science emphasizes the importance of depending on God, the ever-present Mind, to guide and control our activities, health, harmony, and life itself.

Our revered Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, desired her students to fill their thoughts with gratitude for the manifold blessings they have received from divine Love. On page 3 of the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," she asks, "Are we really grateful for the good already received?" She continues: "Then we shall avail ourselves of the blessings we have, and thus be fitted to receive more. Gratitude is much more than a verbal expression of thanks. Action expresses more gratitude than speech."

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