Are you missing out on the benefits of Gratitude? – David Thetford
Are you missing out on the benefits of Gratitude?
Scientific studies consistently show gratitude helps with sleep, blood pressure, happiness, and life satisfaction. It lowers stress, anxiety, and depression. It even increases the strength of relationships and results in a reciprocal upward spiral of care, appreciation, and joy for both ourselves and those we spend time with. Even onlookers who witness an exchange of gratitude from the outside are impacted by it!
Gratitude is also a command in Scripture: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thess 5:18).
Giving thanks is a command (one that certainly is not burdensome!). But who should we give gratitude to? Secular researchers avoid that question – but we have the answer.
“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Col 3:17).
We give thanks to God – the source of all life and good things. That verse also notes we give thanks to God in everything we do. That includes our relationships.
Hebrews 10:24-25 says “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
How do we apply all this practically?
1. Give thanks to God: Make it a routine, maybe right before bed, to be specific about what you’re grateful for. Studies show writing gratitude down can slow us down and make it even more beneficial – so consider buying a prayer journal to have by your bed. And throughout the day, when feeling low, try to counter irrationally pessimistic thoughts with realistic gratitude for what God has given you.
2. Give thanks to others who display God in their life: When you see fruit of the spirit in someone’s life, don’t take it for granted. Call it out and encourage them to continue in it! Studies show just how powerful this is for you, them, your relationship, and even onlookers who witness it!
This is a big reason why the Church is better when it gathers together. From the earliest Christians up to today, we make it a point to make Sunday gatherings a routine of coming together to thank God and encourage each other.
We don’t “do church” because we have to – We gather together because it’s a good and beautiful way to celebrate the truth. It gives us opportunities to be our fullest selves in the image of God. It heals us and builds powerful relationships, shining a light to the world showing that God is real, he loves us, and he wants everyone to come to him.
Don’t miss out on the power of gratitude!