The Gratitude Cure

Gratitude.

It’s defined as being “deeply appreciative of kindness or benefits received.”

As Christians, we have received the greatest benefit ever offered mankind…Jesus Christ. And for that, we ought to show the deepest appreciation possible.

And yet, I so often find myself acting like the rest of the world.

I grumble. I complain. I act entitled.

And as a result, I often feel like the rest of the world – irritable, restless, and unhappy.

The only way to have a change in attitude is to have a change in perspective. Am I going to have an eternal perspective and focus on all the blessings I have or am I going to have a worldly perspective and focus on all the problems I have?

If I were to make a list of my so-called problems and a list of all my blessings, there would be no comparison. My blessings, and all I have to be grateful for, would far outweigh any problems.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (some of my favorite verses!) says:

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Essentially, this verse is saying that it is God’s will for me to rejoice always, pray always, and give thanks always.

I want to be a grateful person and give thanks always.

In an effort to focus more on my blessings and practice gratitude, I created a “Thanksgiving” section in my prayer notebook. In it, I try to think of 3 things I’m grateful for each day. There are, of course, the big ones – like my salvation, my family, my friends, etc. Then there are the seemingly small things; things I used to overlook when I wasn’t focused on being grateful. Things like a freshly brewed cup of coffee in the morning, a beautiful summer sunset, and even lego pieces scattered on the carpet (because it reminds me of the precious boys to whom they belong).

Perspective.

Gratitude can change it.

Try it for yourself. Challenge yourself (even for a week) to come up with 3 things you’re grateful for each day. Write them down and keep them nearby to remind yourself of all the blessings God has given you.

If you struggle with anger, bitterness, irritability, or restlessness, then gratitude could be just the cure you need!

I created this free printable to help you get started. The list is unnumbered so you can make as many copies as you like to continue the practice of gratitude.

What are you grateful for?