Gratitude

Having a gratitude journal is something that I have heard lots about over the last few years. We can see in the Scriptures that this idea/exhortation is in 1 Thessalonians verse 18 “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you, who belong to Christ Jesus”.

Our Lord and Friend doesn’t give us commands that are not achievable, nor does He leave us alone to accomplish them by ourselves. So often, I have found Holy Spirit is truly ‘ a very present help in time of trouble’ and ‘He prepares a table for us in the presence of our enemies.’

Sometimes my focus is so on the tasks in front of me that I forget to look up and see all that the Lord has done already in my current circumstance. In the midst of busyness or weariness I want this thought to be speaking to me “in everything give thanks”. When Jesus fed the 5 thousand with 5 loaves and 2 fish, He first raised His eyes to His Father and gave thanks; miracles followed.

A few benefits of gratitude/thankfulness are improved health; increased energy, elevated mood, increased patience and optimism, improved relationships, increased resiliency and it can make you happier and contented.

When the Bible tells us that the Father’s will is for us to be thankful in all circumstances, we see from the short list above, that as usual, Father God has our very best interests at heart. He is God and His wisdom is unsearchable, His ways far above ours.

I want to again set my heart towards thankfulness this year. I want to be obedient to the will of the Father and I know that as I take the first step by making the decision, He is running toward me to help because His goodness and mercy follow me. He is my strength and song.

Shalom.

Kath