Ingratitude
Summary
The failure to acknowledge and appreciate benefits received, a sin condemned throughout Scripture as characteristic of human fallenness.
☩A Mark of Depravity
Paul lists ingratitude among the marks of human depravity: those who knew God 'glorified him not as God, neither were thankful.' The last days will be characterized by people who are 'unthankful, unholy.' Ingratitude toward God lies at the root of human rebellion, refusing to acknowledge dependence on the Creator.
☩Biblical Examples
Israel's history provides many examples of ingratitude toward God. After deliverance from Egypt, they murmured against Moses and longed for Egyptian food. The nine lepers who failed to return and give thanks when cleansed illustrate human tendency to forget benefits received. Pharaoh's butler forgot Joseph when restored to office.
☩Human Ingratitude
Ingratitude between persons is equally condemned. David's enemies returned him evil for good; Nabal showed churlish ingratitude for David's protection of his flocks. Solomon observed that wisdom delivered a city, yet no one remembered the poor wise man who saved it. Such ingratitude wounds both the giver and the ungrateful recipient.
Related Verses82 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Ingratitude," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IV (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).