Devotionals

Broccoli Gratitude

by Anne Adams
06/13/26
Free to Share
Author requests article critique

  Message Writer
  Hire Writer

Tweet

Broccoli Gratitude

Giving thanks always for all things unto God… Eph. 5:20a (KJV)

 “Jason, will you say grace?” Sarah gently suggested to her small son at the holiday dinner as he looked up with wide eyes. Her whisper continued: “Remember how we talked about thankful for all our blessings? So just tell God what you’re thankful for.”

 It would be easy for him, Sarah thought, since she knew he loved to talk. He began:  “Dear God, this is Jason… thanks for Momma and Daddy, and Grandma and Grandpa…” There followed a list of family members, his small friends and even his favorite toys. Finally Sarah again whispered: “Honey, let’s thank God for the food and then we can eat.”

 Jason complied.  “Okay, thanks, God, for the turkey, potatoes, dressing…” However, then he paused to glance suspiciously at the platter of broccoli and whispered: “Mommy, do I have to thank God for that green stuff?”

Childish honesty like that can be amusing but it also can illustrate an interesting aspect of the issue of our “giving thanks for everything.”  The question is - does God actually ask us to be thankful for everything even though it’s something we don’t like or even want?   

 Well, actually, from our passage Paul seems to be telling us that we should – but why?  

I believe it’s because it has to do with our continued ongoing relationship with God. For when we can be grateful to God for what he provides and brings into our lives – even the unpleasant or unwelcome – then it helps us develop a consistent “attitude of gratitude.” And with this we become more open to his future plans for us, and thus avoid any possible resentment or rejection to future assignments.

Yes, we might occasionally encounter some broccoli, but being thankful for it helps us see God at work in our lives. For our benefit and his glory.