The Practice of Gratitude

The calendar says it’s time to give thanks, but do we really need a reminder to be grateful? The truth is, sometimes we do! The reality is that we’re not always grateful; so why is that? Maybe it’s because life is not always so great.  

So how can we be grateful, even when life isn’t great? Don’t get me wrong, you and I have plenty to be thankful for; we just don’t tend to dwell as much on life’s blessings as we do on life’s troubles.  Our world doesn’t promote gratitude; it promotes ingratitude.  We’re surrounded and inundated by it. Yet God’s Word calls us, commands us, challenges us to be thankful! Again and again in the Psalms, we see declarations of thanksgiving. (Ref. Psalm 100:4; Psalm 35:18; Psalm 7:17)

1 I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart;

    I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. Psalm 9:1

In this simple verse, we see three vital characteristics of gratitude:

1. Gratitude is an act of my will! In other words, gratitude is a choice I can, and will, make daily. Will you get up each day determined, committed to giving thanks to the Lord?

2. Gratitude is an expression of my heart!  Gratitude is not something that we express half-heartedly. Gratitude is expressed from the depths of our hearts. And our Lord deserves, and expects, my whole-hearted gratitude! Is practicing gratitude a deep desire for you?

3. Gratitude is an appreciation for what God is doing in my life!  If you’re committed to practicing gratitude, then think about and talk about what the Lord is doing, and what He has done, in your life! Do you appreciate the Lord’s “wonderful deeds” in your life? When you do, you’ll tell others about it, and you’ll make an impression and leave a mark for Jesus Christ!  

For much more, including how to practice gratitude when life is not so great, click here to watch our Thanksgiving worship and message!