Practicing Gratitude During the Season of Thanksgiving
The season of Thanksgiving is upon us, and it’s that time of year when we tend to count our blessings and make expressions of gratitude. But why is this practice so important? Let’s dive into the reasons why thankfulness is crucial in our Christian walks, what the benefits of gratitude are, and some practical ways we can be more thankful in every season!
Why Is Thankfulness Important?
Did you know that numerous studies have concluded that practicing thankfulness can have profound effects on our physical health and well-being? According to health experts, thankfulness can:
Improve sleep quality
Enhance mood
Boost immunity
Reduce depression and anxiety
Alleviate chronic pain
Lower the risk of various diseases
One of the most important reasons to embrace thankfulness, though, is its power to change our spiritual mindset. Being thankful directs our focus away from the negativity that often surrounds us and toward the goodness and purity of God. Thankfulness helps us to dwell on the remarkable things God has done, and keeps our attention on eternal things rather than temporal ones.
Let’s talk about some areas in life where being grateful is crucial.
Thankfulness in Prayer
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. ”
When we approach God in prayer, the apostle Paul advises us to make our requests known with thankfulness. This practice not only strengthens our relationship with God but also keeps our hearts humble. It reduces anxiety about our circumstances, reminding us of God's sovereignty and provision.
Thankfulness in Worship
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! ”
The Psalmist encourages us to begin our worship with giving thanks when we come before God. Worship isn’t about our circumstances, our struggles, our opinions, or our needs. It’s about giving God the reverence, praise, and attention he truly deserves. It's a powerful way to express our gratitude for his enduring love and faithfulness to all generations.
Thankfulness in Giving
“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you. ”
We know from scripture (and from our own experiences) that as we give, God generously gives back to us. Embracing thankfulness while giving, then, allows us to not only display our faith in Jesus, but also magnify the impact of our generosity. Gratefulness is a beautiful expression of trust in God's provision and a way for us to be “cheerful givers” like we know God loves.
Thankfulness During Difficult Times
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. ”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 instructs us to "give thanks in all circumstances." But why would we be thankful during the most difficult times of our lives? This command reminds us that God works all things for good in our lives. Maintaining an attitude of thankfulness during challenging moments helps keep our perspective positive and productive, and it strengthens our faith.
Practical Tips for Having an “Attitude of Gratitude”
People who practice thankfulness in their lives are often characterized by joy, positivity, and a willingness to work and sacrifice for the kingdom of God. This attitude not only enriches their own lives but also inspires those around them.
If you’re ready to take on an attitude of gratitude, enjoy the benefits of thankfulness, and inspire those around you, here are some practical ways you can get started:
Start a Gratitude Journal: Keep an ongoing written list of things you are thankful for. This simple practice can help you focus on blessings in your life.
Morning Prayer of Thanks: Set the tone for the day with a prayer of gratitude, thanking God for the gift of a new day and the blessings you've received.
Bible Study on Thankfulness: Explore Bible verses and passages that emphasize thankfulness, such as Psalm 100, and incorporate them into your daily study.
Serve Others: Serving those in need can help you appreciate your own blessings and give thanks for the opportunity to make a positive impact.
Share Thankfulness with Others: Express your gratitude to family and friends, letting them know how much you appreciate them and the roles they play in your life.
Perform Thankful Acts: Actively seek opportunities to show thankfulness, such as sending thank-you notes or expressing gratitude to coworkers.
Share Your Testimony: Share your personal testimony of how God has worked in your life, highlighting moments of thanksgiving and blessings.
Pray for a Grateful Heart: Ask God to help you develop and maintain a grateful heart, seeking his guidance in this journey.
A Season of Thankfulness for a Yearlong Reminder
While this is a season every year that we focus on thankfulness, being grateful is a yearlong attitude we should be striving for. It’s not merely a tradition, but a daily practice that can transform our perspective, improve our well-being, and deepen our relationship with God. As we approach the season of Thanksgiving, remember the profound impact of gratitude in your daily life.
May our hearts overflow with thankfulness in all circumstances as we focus on the goodness of God and His enduring love!