With Gratitude

What’s your relationship with gratitude? Do you have it? Experience it? Understand it? Gratitude can be defined as an intentional focus on and response to God rather than a focus on yourself.

When Paul was brought before an authority figure because he was stirring up the crowd, Paul was able to thank this leader and acknowledge the benefit he had been to society. He delivers his thank you with “gratitude.”  (Acts 24:1-4)

Paul also gives us life instruction when he tells us to “Rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 4:4).” Paul knows if we are thankful for what we have (circumstances, health, provision, etc.) we can put less emphasis on what we do not have (that wish list we tend to keep!). When we express gratitude, we are rejoicing in thankfulness. Paul’s words carry weight in that he was writing from prison!

Gratitude is not just an attitude; it is a practice. It is something we can do. When you practice a musical instrument, sport, or dance step, your practice improves your outcome. We do not have to wait to feel gratitude, we can get started with it right now. If we don’t, it is just an intention. An intention, even good ones, accomplish nothing without actions. It is an acknowledgement that we are thankful for the life God provides. Later in that same chapter of Philippians, Paul declares, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen (Philippians 4:19,20).” That’s a promise to be grateful for!

Gratitude and joy can be found in people that might be facing the toughest of circumstances. Gratitude is connected to our relationship with God and not what we want from Him.

Try experimenting with some of these specific practices/actions:

• Keep a gratitude journal
• Take a walk and thank God for everything that you see and think about.
• Write things for which you are grateful on slips of paper and put them in a gratitude jar. When you’re feeling empty or down, read a few of them.
• Remember to express your love and appreciation to family, co-workers, etc.
• Be intentional in thanking and complementing the people you encounter: your neighbor, the grocery employee, family members, and delivery people. They feel better and you feel better!

As you try these things, you also come to realize how many great people God places in your life each day! There are also other beneficial outcomes like: more positive outlook, better sleep, deepened relationships, and better able to put negative things into perspective.