Does an Attitude of Gratitude Have to Be Taught?

Parents want to give their children the best they can afford, believing it will help their self-esteem by creating a positive self image. Do indulged children appreciate what they’re given? Have you witnessed children ripping through mounds of gifts and never uttering, “Thank you”? An attitude of gratitude has to be taught throughout childhood.

A four-year-old girl knocked on a neighbor’s door and cheerfully said, “Trick or treat!”  When the neighbor dropped candy into her bag, the child protested, “I don’t like that kind.” The child’s mother quickly ordered her child to say, “Thank you.” The mother was teaching her child to be courteous and show gratitude.

Proverbs 31 demonstrates how a woman can succeed in business, as a wife, and in being a mother. “She is clothed with strength and dignity...Her children demonstrate appreciation and gratitude.” So do not grow weary or cease to give thanks to the Lord, especially for the opportunity to teach your children how to be appreciative.                   

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Keep your roots deep in [Christ], and become stronger in your faith, as you were taught. And be filled with thanksgiving.

~Colossians 2:7 Good News Bible

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