Step 11: We choose to rid ourselves of any attitude that is not bathed in gratitude.
The giving of thanks is the only logical response one can have to a forgiveness and a holiness that are totally undeserved. Thankfulness is so tied to grace that the absence of gratitude in a Christian’s life is an indication that legalism still rules the day. Gifts are contrary to the pharisaical spirit, which trusts only in what has been earned. It means that the person who receives must become vulnerable to the Giver. Even our reward at the end of the journey will come as a thankful surprise, because we will have become so well acquainted with our sins and shortcomings along the way that we will not be expecting it. Heb 11: 1-2, 32-40; Psa 30:11-12
For the Pharisees who have earned their own right standing, there is no one to thank—no one, of course, but themselves. One is thankful only for that which one does not deserve. No one craves more when he is grateful for what he has. Thankfulness conquers selfish ambition. For this reason, giving thanks is one of the most valuable tools a recovering Pharisee has in fighting pharisaical attitudes. You are simply glad to be counted among the saved. Jam 3:16; Phil 4:11; 1 Thes 5:18; 1 Tim 1:12
You don’t have to protect your image when you are already number one with God. You don’t have to hide your sin when you have received God’s forgiveness. You don’t have to be full of yourself when you are thankful that God has filled you up with Himself. [Even when others prosper from your spiritual efforts] … I start by being thankful that the message has gone out and has helped so many people. 1 Cor 3:6; Phil 1:15-19; Eph 1:3-7; 3:1-9
