None of us deserves the things we have. We live very comfortably while people all over the world suffer. We take for granted things that other people have never experienced. Yet we still feel like we don’t have enough. We want more. And we aren’t very grateful for what we do have.

That’s why it’s important for us to practice an attitude of gratitude. We need to take time every day to thank God for the blessings he has given us (Colossians 3:15). When you’re thankful for what you have, you’ll be able to live every day with joy—whether you get more or not!

Spiritual maturity doesn’t come easily. It usually comes by making a lot of mistakes. Don’t get too discouraged if you’re unable to live the perfect Christian life right now. That’s what commitment is all about. Commitment means that even though you blow it again and again, you hang in there and keep learning from your mistakes. Don’t give up on Jesus; he never gives up on you.

While others may overlook you, God is the supreme artist who looks beyond your flaws and sees the image buried inside that’s waiting to come out. He wants to chip away at what doesn’t belong—perhaps a sin in your life, a bad habit, or a negative attitude that keeps you from being what God wants you to be. He wants to get started today.

Don’t forget: that buried image inside each one of us is the image of God himself.