The Gratitude Effect

Scripture

“Give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5: 18 (CSB)

Observation

God’s will for us involves more than life altering decisions, radical transformations, and miracles performed by Him. It also involves how we nurture and grow our daily relationship with Him, through the good and bad. We heard in Ben’s sermon on Sunday, how living a life of gratitude — whatever place we find ourselves in — naturally draws us closer to God. He wants us to give thanks in every circumstance, not necessarily for every circumstance. Gratitude shows trust in God in the good times or the extremely difficult ones, no matter the outcome.
Two of the direct threats to maintaining a grateful heart are complaining and comparing; both are enemies to gratitude. Complaining will cause us to magnify what’s wrong or what we may perceive as lack, instead of highlighting God’s unending and unchanging goodness. When we compare, we shift our focus from God’s unique blessings for our lives, to what others have. This will always breed a spirit of jealousy, envy, insecurity, resentment, bitterness, doubt, and ultimately lead us to ungratefulness. This is not God’s will for us. 
Complaining and comparing turns our eyes away from God, and leads us to a hardened heart, causing distance in our relationship with Jesus.

Application

Remind yourself that gratitude will keep you closer to Jesus. This week, reflect and ask yourself,  what areas in your life have you been tempted to complain or compare, and how can you shift your focus towards gratitude instead?

Practical ways to grow daily in gratitude:
1. Speak Gratitude:
Each day, speak thanks to God for, at least, three specific things you are thankful for. This will set your heart and mind on God’s goodness.

2. Write Gratitude:
Consider a gratitude journal to write and reflect on His blessings. This will allow you to look back on all He has done.

3. Share Gratitude:
Talk about His goodness with others. Gratitude shared will not only strengthen our individual walk with the Lord, but it has the potential to build and encourage others, reminding them that a grateful heart is a powerful tool. 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unending goodness. Forgive me for the times I have allowed complaining and comparison to steal my joy, creating distance in our relationship. Help me to be content and grateful in every season of life. Help me to speak, write, and share gratitude, so that my heart stays close to Yours. Help me desire Your will for my life and give You thanks in all circumstances. To God be the Glory, in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.