Living a life of gratitude means having a heart that is sensitive to God’s presence in our everyday lives.
Take some time each day to thank God for who He is and for something He has done for you. You can thank Him always for everything—great or small—but being specific about something each day that is especially meaningful to you will be a blessing to you and to God.
For example, it can be as simple as, “Father, thank You for helping me make good decisions today,” or “Lord, thank You for sending Jesus to save us.” Take a moment to do this silently in your heart or voice your thankfulness out loud.
Not only does it please God when we thank Him, it’ll make you feel better and change your outlook on everything from the kind of day you’re having to how you see your relationships. Start by making a list of what you’re thankful for…see how long you can make your list. Maybe even take some time to write down the reasons you are thankful for the people you’ll be with this week and then share it with them.
But don’t let it stop after the holidays are over. Extend your gratitude toward others by recognizing when someone does something nice for you, and letting them know that you appreciate it. Showing appreciation to your family members is a good place to start. Expressing appreciation is not only good for the other person, but it is good for us, because it releases joy in us.
Psalm 34:1 (ESV) says, I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. Gratitude can be a part of who we are deep down in our hearts; it can be a type of prayer that can flow out of us in a natural way that is simple and genuine.
Share your attitude of gratitude with everyone you come in contact with. And be the one helping to create an atmosphere that everyone can enjoy and remember.
And that’s the memo.
By Joyce Meyer
