Gratitude changes the atmosphere and reminds us of God’s faithfulness.
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Gratitude Is a Way of Life
Thanksgiving is being grateful to God for what He has done.
In the Old Testament, King David appointed the Levites to celebrate Yahweh and offer constant thanksgiving, praise, and worship.
Gratitude is not meant to be occasional.
It can become a way of life.
We can thank God in the small things…
and in the big things.
I love this verse about thankfulness:
“Let joy be your continual feast. Make your life a prayer. And in the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God’s perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 (TPT)
What a beautiful picture.
A life of joy.
A life of prayer.
A life of gratitude.
Remembering Anchors Us in the Storm
Remembering what the Lord has done for us is a powerful way to anchor ourselves during life’s storms.
I’ve heard pastors like Bill Johnson, Kris Vallotton, and Dylan Van der Merwe preach on this subject.
When the Israelites crossed the Jordan River, God instructed them to create memorial stones:
“… These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever.”
Joshua 4:7 (NIV)
Why?
Because God knew His people would need reminding.
The stones were a sign of God’s provision and faithfulness.
They were also a teaching tool for future generations.
When children asked, “What do these stones mean?” they would hear the story of God’s miraculous provision.
The Bible Is Full of Reminders
There are many reminders throughout Scripture of God’s goodness.
The Passover reminds us of God’s miracles and the Exodus from Egypt.
The Lord’s Supper reminds us of Jesus’ death, resurrection, and His promised return.
Reading these stories can lift our spirits.
They change the atmosphere to one of hope, joy, and praise.
Remember What God Has Done for You
Keeping a personal record of what God has done in our lives is a beautiful way to remember His blessings.
When I reflect on all the ways the Lord has blessed me…
it nearly brings me to tears.
My loving Father has been with me always.
Even before I was born, He knew me and loved me.
He blessed me with good parents who loved and cared for me.
They made sure I was fed, clothed, and educated.
They took me to church and instilled in me faith, a strong work ethic, and a sense of fun.
God has blessed me with my beloved husband, who has never faltered in his love for me in 32 years.
He has blessed me with three beautiful children, their partners, and six precious grandchildren… with another on the way.
I am healthy and well.
I am employed in meaningful work that I enjoy.
I belong to a loving extended family, have wonderful friends and neighbours, and I am part of a powerful church family and fellowship groups.
God has provided a lovely home in a friendly neighbourhood and two reliable cars.
We have food on the table and can pay our bills.
Years ago, when I turned my face from God and walked away…
He never gave up on me.
He lovingly wooed me back into His light and redeemed me.
And He has continued to show His faithfulness.
Last year, He performed a miracle when our granddaughter was born healthy and well despite dire medical predictions.
Two and a half years ago, when my grandson was diagnosed with meningitis, he returned home within a week with no serious complications.
Four years ago, when another grandson was on life support in the Queensland Children’s Hospital, God preserved his life—and today he is a happy and healthy boy.
God is so good.
Journal His Goodness
When we journal the wonderful things God has done in our lives, we create our own “memorial stones.”
We can meditate on them.
Re-read them.
Reflect on His faithfulness.
And as we do…
our faith grows.
Our hope rises.
Praise fills our hearts.
Joy overflows.
It reminds us that God is good.
He cares.
He is near.
And we are never abandoned.
Prayer
Father God,
Thank You for Your goodness, faithfulness, and love. Thank You for every blessing—both seen and unseen. Help us cultivate hearts of gratitude in every season. Remind us of all You have done and all You continue to do in our lives. Let thanksgiving rise in us and fill our hearts with joy, hope, and peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Activation
Today, write down five ways God has blessed you.
Big or small.
Then thank Him for each one.
Start a gratitude journal or list your own “memorial stones.”
Return to them often.
And let gratitude shift the atmosphere.
Right now is always the best time to begin.
If this message encouraged you, please share the link with someone who might need it today. I’d love to hear how you are intentionally choosing gratitude. Please share your story in the comments below.
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