We are the only ones who have control over our thoughts.  We are the ‘keepers’ of that part of our vineyard. If we apply Proverbs 24:30-31 to our hearts, failure to keep our vineyard will cause it to become overgrown with thorns and nettles. and our stone walls of truth will be broken down. 

Once we have our first negative thought against our circumstances, others, or ourselves, we can stop it in its tracks. How? Through thanksgiving. Remember the loaves and fishes did not multiply until after Jesus gave thanks.

Expressing gratitude is like taking some pruning shears to our negative thoughts. If we cut them off they will fall to the ground and wither. Their source of life is instantly cut off. However, if we allow them to remain, they will become like a rolling snowball. It careens down the path gathering more negative debris. Cutting off the negative thoughts will allow a harvest of grateful thoughts to flourish.