Gratitude: A Posture of the Heart
"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus."
(1 Thessalonians 5:18)
People who practice gratitude are overall happier and healthier than their more doomsday-oriented counterparts. A according to a study by the University of Southern California, people who make a habit out of thankfulness are generally less stressed, less tense, and better attuned to their relationships. The benefits of mindful gratitude are many, and practicing it can be as simple as saying thank you.
As Christians, we have so much to thank God for. We can thank him for giving His Son to die in our place, for salvation, and for eternal life. We can thank Him for giving us purpose and for calling us to go into the world and proclaim the good news of salvation He offers. We are secure in His love, and our lives have meaning because of Him. Still, that's just the starting point. We can add more to that list.
By taking a moment every day to name just three things you're grateful for; you can shift your perspective to the good happening in your life. It could be as simple as hearing the birds outside or as huge as winning the championship game.
By practicing daily gratitude, we do more than just say thank you. We become healthier and more joyful, leading to even more abundant mission-possible lives. Start living with that intentional mindset on this New Year's Day, 2026!
Questions to Ponder
Are you thankful for the blessings of life?
Have you told Him so lately?
Why not try naming three things that you are thankful for each day this year?
Happy New Year
Terry & Mary Phillips
