Denzel Washington's Powerful Message About Gratitude, Grace and God

Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington spoke of the importance of gratitude, a good attitude and of faith during a charity banquet for the Church of God in Christ on Saturday in St. Louis, Missouri.

Washington, the son of a pastor who preached with the Pentecostal denomination for 60 years, said that, though he hasn't always been perfectly faithful, God has always been there for him unconditionally throughout his life and career.

"There's never been a time where God didn't direct protect and correct me," Washington said. "There may have been times where I was less than faithful to him, but he had faith in me."

The actor also had some key pieces of advice for the 1,000 people in the audience, telling them to always remember to be grateful for God's blessings and to pray regularly to the Lord.

"Give thanks for blessings everyday. Everyday. Embrace gratitude. Encourage others. It is impossible to be grateful and hateful at the same time," he said.

The veteran actor continued, "I pray that you put your slippers way under your bed at night, so that when you wake in the morning you have to start on your knees to find them. And while you’re down there, say thank you."

In the end, Washington said that a positive attitude is key if one wants to progress in life.

"Faith and optimism can add years to your life. A bad attitude is like a flat tire," he continued. "Until you change it, you’re not going anywhere."

Actor Denzel Washington (AP)

Washington said that he plans to make an effort to speak more publicly about what God has done for both him and his family.

As TheBlaze previously reported, the actor made headlines earlier this year while delivering the commencement address at Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana, telling graduates to always "put God first."

(H/T: Deseret News)

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