The Power of Gratitude E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Seitenzahl: 397

Beschreibung

Gratitude is a powerful weapon against toxic emotions like envy, resentment, and frustration. Being grateful also improves physical and relational health, helping individuals boost self-esteem and decrease self-pity. When people focus on the things they are grateful for, their satisfaction in life increases. Comparisons cease. Unnecessary pursuits pause. And they begin to notice things that truly matter. Life. Breath. Generosity. Beauty. Grace. This is where deep connection with God is found. As you read these devotions and Scriptures, be inspired to live with gratitude in your heart and praise on your lips. Meditate on things that produce life and peace. Evaluate each day in the light of God's truth and stand in awe of a heavenly Father who gives abundantly more than you can ask or imagine. As you quiet yourself before him, experience the goodness of his presence and be refreshed with his life-giving joy. Choose to be thankful today and watch how it changes your perspective for the days ahead . Features: • High-grade faux leather provides durability and exquisite tactile appeal. • Heat debossing on faux leather darkens its color, giving the cover a two-tone appearance and creating indentation which shows off the intricate design and varied texture. • Metallic and matte foil finishing touches are elegantly placed to enhance certain features, capturing attention and adding class for an aesthetic appeal. • High-quality sturdy Smyth-sewn binding stitches book signatures together creating durability and allowing pages to lay flat when open. Decorative head and foot bands are also added to further complement the overall design. • Matte art high quality paper with a smooth satin touch provides long-lasting vivid coloration and durability. • A beautiful satin ribbon marker conveniently keeps your place so you can quickly pick up where you left off.  

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THE POWER OF GRATITUDE

© 2024 by BroadStreet Publishing®

9781424566938

9781424566945 (eBook)

Devotional entries composed by Sara Perry.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked ESV are taken from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), Copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked CSB are taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. Scripture quotations marked NASB are taken from the New American Standard Bible, Copyright 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NCV are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked TPT are taken from The Passion Translation® of the Holy Bible. Copyright © 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing®. All rights reserved.

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Since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.

HEBREWS 12:28-29 NIV

INTRODUCTION

Gratitude is a powerful weapon against toxic emotions like envy, resentment, and frustration. Being grateful also improves physical and relational health, helping individuals boost self-esteem and decrease self-pity. When people focus on the things they are grateful for, their satisfaction in life increases. Comparisons cease. Unnecessary pursuits pause. And they begin to notice things that truly matter. Life. Breath. Generosity. Beauty. Grace. This is where deep connection with God is found.

As you read these devotions and Scriptures, be inspired to live with gratitude in your heart and praise on your lips. Meditate on things that produce life and peace. Evaluate each day in the light of God’s truth and stand in awe of a heavenly Father who gives abundantly more than you can ask or imagine. As you quiet yourself before him, experience the goodness of his presence and be refreshed with his life-giving joy.

Choose to be thankful today and watch how it changes your perspective for the days ahead.

Contents

January

January 1: Courageous Gratitude

January 2: Life-giving Friends

January 3: In the Waiting

January 4: Speaking Truth

January 5: Share Your Gratitude

January 6: Heart of Praise

January 7: Boost of Confidence

January 8: Things That Matter

January 9: Astounding Kindness

January 10: Loved to Life

January 11: Gifts of Grace

January 12: God Keeps Record

January 13: Comfort and Relief

January 14: Beyond Accomplishments

January 15: Slow to Anger

January 16: Led by Wonder

January 17: Foundational Prayers

January 18: Satisfied

January 19: Small Beginnings

January 20: Consider the Possibilities

January 21: Cheerful Giving

January 22: Bridges of Peace

January 23: Continual Kindness

January 24: Blessed Consistency

January 25: A Life of Prayer

January 26: Revelations of Love

January 27: Confidence Outside Ourselves

January 28: Fruit of Our Lips

January 29: Empowered by Trust

January 30: The Power of Agency

January 31: Reason to Hope

February

February 1: Courage to Stand

February 2: Grounded in the Spirit

February 3: Joy is Accessible

February 4: Content With Today

February 5: Persistent Hope

February 6: No Need to Strive

February 7: Trustworthy and True

February 8: Cultivating Gratitude

February 9: Always a Way

February 10: Lay It Down

February 11: Beautiful Grace

February 12: Beyond the Surface

February 13: Mindful Living

February 14: Voice Your Needs

February 15: Find Peace

February 16: Great Generosity

February 17: Reflections of Our Father

February 18: So Very Accessible

February 19: Strength and Endurance

February 20: What Remains

February 21: Teachable Hearts

February 22: Seek and You Will Find

February 23: Think About It

February 24: Never Alone

February 25: First Choice

February 26: The Power of Intention

February 27: Signals of God’s Faithfulness

February 28: Beloved Ones

March

March 1: Opportunity to Understand

March 2: New Life

March 3: Increased Patience

March 4: End the Comparison

March 5: There’s Still Time

March 6: Reasons to Celebrate

March 7: Even More Reason

March 8: From the Ashes

March 9: Love’s Light

March 10: Grateful for the Help

March 11: The Good Stuff

March 12: The Path to Freedom

March 13: Heart Posture

March 14: What We Need

March 15: Confident Steps

March 16: Wonderful Things

March 17: Eyes Fixed

March 18: The Importance of Vision

March 19: Rooted in Trust

March 20: Outside of Us

March 21: The Power of Practice

March 22: So Much More

March 23: The Treasure of Contentment

March 24: Comforting Compassion

March 25: Wonders of Revelation

March 26: Worth Waiting

March 27: A Safe Place

March 28: Audience of One

March 29: Work in Progress

March 30: Fearless Confidence

March 31: Benefits in Suffering

April

April 1: All About Love

April 2: Peace in the Unknown

April 3: Multiplied Efforts

April 4: Keep Encouraging

April 5: Inner Work

April 6: Living and Active

April 7: Overflowing Compassion

April 8: Take a Break

April 9: Sweet Sleep

April 10: Tied to Hope

April 11: Open Your Ears

April 12: Spring’s Joys

April 13: Completely Filled

April 14: Nothing is Too Small

April 15: Peace of Heart

April 16: Transformed Thinking

April 17: Wisdom and Strength

April 18: Paying Attention

April 19: Ancient Wisdom

April 20: Compelled to Serve

April 21: Let Go of Judgment

April 22: Share Your Joy

April 23: A Slight Shift

April 24: Patient Endurance

April 25: Even Under Pressure

April 26: Nourished and Equipped

April 27: Nothing Off Limits

April 28: Clarity

April 29: So Much Goodness

April 30: Following Jesus

May

May 1: Firm Foundation

May 2: Today’s the Day

May 3: Securely Held

May 4: Gracious Presence

May 5: Wonderfully Made

May 6: Simple Instructions

May 7: Ask Search Find

May 8: Light of Life

May 9: Understood

May 10: Renewed Attitude

May 11: Count Your Joys

May 12: Chasing Awe

May 13: Ruled by Peace

May 14: Effects of Endurance

May 15: Living Sacrifice

May 16: Perfect Gifts

May 17: Beauty of Belonging

May 18: Chosen Offerings

May 19: In Every Situation

May 20: Moved by Music

May 21: Radiant Expressions

May 22: Clothed in Compassion

May 23: Dancing in Celebration

May 24: Eyes Opened

May 25: Light of His Presence

May 26: Increasing Love

May 27: Confidence in Christ

May 28: Love-minded

May 29: Rewrite Your Heart

May 30: Gentle Teacher

May 31: Lighter

June

June 1: Gratitude Through Hospitality

June 2: Powerful Revelations

June 3: What He Wanted

June 4: Something New

June 5: So Many Blessings

June 6: Wellspring of Life

June 7: Private Practice

June 8: Pleasing Thoughts

June 9: Helpful Reflections

June 10: Health to the Body

June 11: Psychology and Physicality

June 12: Levels of Trust

June 13: Working Together

June 14: Holy Patience

June 15: Awakened to Goodness

June 16: Good Plans

June 17: Hints of Hope

June 18: Faithful With the Little Things

June 19: Large Returns

June 20: Focused on Today

June 21: Present Comfort

June 22: Promised Help

June 23: The Power of Stillness

June 24: More Than We Know

June 25: Stages of Life

June 26: Powerful Words

June 27: Small Seeds Big Growth

June 28: What We Sow

June 29: Great Wisdom

June 30: Commit It to God

July

July 1: Firm Identity

July 2: Rock of Refuge

July 3: Lift Your Eyes

July 4: Sacrificial Love

July 5: Presence Over Perfection

July 6: Gratitude’s Returns

July 7: Surrounded by Peace

July 8: Seeing Things Rightly

July 9: Gratitude and Belief

July 10: A Worthwhile Wait

July 11: The Joys of Today

July 12: Healing Ointment

July 13: Gracious Freedom

July 14: Focus

July 15: Powerful Peace

July 16: Keep Going

July 17: Victorious Mindsets

July 18: Expressions of Gratitude

July 19: Consider It

July 20: Awe-inducing Beauty

July 21: Opportunities for Rest

July 22: Tell Them

July 23: Perfect Portion

July 24: Inner Renewal

July 25: Healthy Outlook

July 26: Different Representations

July 27: Heartfelt Affections

July 28: Greater Than Gold

July 29: Enriched in Every Way

July 30: Let It Go

July 31: Shared Blessings

August

August 1: Good Fruit

August 2: Greatest Measure

August 3: Visible Transformations

August 4: Focus in

August 5: Tender Devotion

August 6: It’s Possible

August 7: What It’s All for

August 8: Stay Humble

August 9: Captivated Thoughts

August 10: Springs or Life

August 11: Continue in This Way

August 12: Believe and Declare

August 13: Choose Kindness

August 14: Active Participation

August 15: Power to Overcome

August 16: Gratitude Builds Trust

August 17: Wise Builders

August 18: Subtle Shifts

August 19: Courage and Strength

August 20: Power of Presence

August 21: Stay Open

August 22: Partnering With God

August 23: Active Waiting

August 24: Clinging to the Good

August 25: Help in Understanding

August 26: Granted Access

August 27: Secret of Happiness

August 28: Emotional Connection

August 29: What Can I Do?

August 30: Quiet Contemplation

August 31: Room for Both

September

September 1: Settled

September 2: Made for This Time

September 3: With Confidence

September 4: Never Without Help

September 5: Take the Time

September 6: Mercy in Action

September 7: Enough to Go Around

September 8: Same Purpose

September 9: Always Abounding

September 10: Simple and True

September 11: Encouraging Wisdom

September 12: Surrounded by Grace

September 13: A Sense of Belonging

September 14: Thoughts in the Night

September 15: Every Circumstance

September 16: Joyous Wisdom

September 17: Words Matter

September 18: Combating Materialism

September 19: Just Enough

September 20: Riches of Knowledge

September 21: Inexpressible Joy

September 22: Amazing Hope

September 23: Deeply Rooted

September 24: Not a Slave

September 25: Lost and Found

September 26: Inner Satisfaction

September 27: Healing Rays

September 28: He Already Knows

September 29: Outside Ourselves

September 30: Reflections of Mercy

October

October 1: Possibilities of Breakthrough

October 2: Motivation of Expectation

October 3: Learned Behavior

October 4: Humble Yourself

October 5: Supportive Community

October 6: Perfect Example

October 7: Banner of Love

October 8: Provision All Around

October 9: Loosening Our Grip

October 10: Wonders to Behold

October 11: Nurturing Comfort

October 12: Alert and Aware

October 13: Unshakable

October 14: All Day Long

October 15: Where the Spirit is

October 16: Evidence of Hope

October 17: One Thing at a Time

October 18: Persistent Peace

October 19: Everything Right

October 20: Sweet Aromas

October 21: What Has Proven True?

October 22: Divine Exchange

October 23: Not Afraid to Ask

October 24: Overflowing Goodness

October 25: Simple Criteria

October 26: Choosing to Grow

October 27: Even Though

October 28: Return to Simplicity

October 29: Linger in Love

October 30: Sweet Relief

October 31: Blessed Community

November

November 1: Greater Understanding

November 2: Come Home

November 3: Wholehearted Approach

November 4: Absolutely Anything

November 5: So Very Near

November 6: Share the Love

November 7: Celebrate Who You Are

November 8: No Box Can Hold Him

November 9: Acts of Kindness

November 10: Beauty in Diversity

November 11: Power of Restraint

November 12: Enduring Love

November 13: Embrace Your Life

November 14: Hopeful Expectation

November 15: Thankful for Them

November 16: Rich in Kindness

November 17: Perfect Perspective

November 18: New Beginnings

November 19: Just What You Need

November 20: Give a Little

November 21: Diamonds in the Rough

November 22: Abide

November 23: Every Time

November 24: Eye for Beauty

November 25: Resurrection Life

November 26: Morning and Evening

November 27: Light at the End

November 28: Do the Work

November 29: Opened Understanding

November 30: Power of Delight

December

December 1: How Wonderful

December 2: Familiar

December 3: Ministry of Reconciliation

December 4: Advocates of Peace

December 5: Greater Than Biases

December 6: Return of Ease

December 7: Same Measure

December 8: Grounded Vision

December 9: A Story to Tell

December 10: Emerging Kindness

December 11: Expressions of Life

December 12: Share the Wealth

December 13: All Things Well

December 14: Wells of Joy

December 15: The Hope of Dawn

December 16: Choosing to Rejoice

December 17: Fuel for Prayer

December 18: Making Space

December 19: Passing Shadows

December 20: Good News of Great Joy

December 21: Hidden Treasures

December 22: True Freedom

December 23: Righteous King

December 24: The Time Has Come

December 25: Wonderful Counselor

December 26: Compelled by Love

December 27: Born of God

December 28: Close in Comfort

December 29: Return to Rest

December 30: Quiet Places

December 31: A Plan and a Purpose

JANUARY

Always give thanks to Father God for every person he brings into your life in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

EPHESIANS 5:20 TPT

JANUARY 1

COURAGEOUS GRATITUDE

“Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the Temple of the LORD is finished.”

1 CHRONICLES 28:20 NLT

The practice of gratitude has many benefits to our overall well-being. Studies now show that our relationships, our mental and physical health, and our life satisfaction are all boosted as we incorporate this practice into our daily lives. Gratitude helps us to be grounded in the present moment, in what is true here and now. Sure, it won’t erase the challenges, but it can help us to be resilient in them as we see that the challenges are not the only part of our lives.

It takes courage to stand rooted in the present and to look for the goodness that is with us now. The smile of a stranger, the hug of a loved one, a warm home, and food on the table—the simplest things can be a perfect place to start. Gratitude may feel like work at first, but the more you practice it, the more you will build that muscle and create new neural pathways that make it feel easier over time!

Start a journal. Call it your Gratitude Journal and list in it a few things you are grateful for every day.

JANUARY 2

LIFE-GIVING FRIENDS

I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.

EPHESIANS 1:16 NIV

When we take time to be grateful for the people in our lives, evidence shows that our social bonds grow stronger. When we can pinpoint the qualities which we are thankful for in the people around us, we are more compelled to treat them as gifts. It can be easy to get caught up in frustrations, but what if we spent just as much energy or even more on what we are grateful for?

Think about the people in your life you are grateful for and why. Don’t just shrug off this exercise if nothing comes to mind at first. Think of those closest to you. What are the attributes in them that you appreciate? As you begin to recognize what those qualities are, take note of them. The next time you see them, make a point of sharing those thoughts with them. We can’t take for granted that our loved ones know what we appreciate about them. Let’s be intentional and make sure they know!

Tell at least two people in your life what you are grateful for about them today no matter how insignificant it might seem to you. It just may be the encouragement they need.

JANUARY 3

IN THE WAITING

The LORD will wait, that He may be gracious to you; And therefore He will be exalted, that He may have mercy on you. For the LORD is a God of justice; Blessed are all those who wait for Him.

ISAIAH 30:18 NKJV

How many of us find it easy to dream about what we will be grateful for in the future? Any dream, hope, or longing is easy to conjure up. Yet, if we spend too much time on the not yet we may miss the enjoyment of the now. We are blessed in the waiting—read the last part of today’s verse once more. There are reasons to be thankful today no matter where you are or what you are facing.

Waiting doesn’t have to be boring or painful. We truly can learn to enjoy the slower pace in the in-between periods. We don’t have to ignore the longing we feel in the waiting. However, when we shift our perspective to what is true, what is good, and what is precious in the present, we expand our awareness of the presence of God with us. God is so gracious, and his grace is abundant toward us today.

Pay attention to the little things that make you feel connected to the present today.

JANUARY 4

SPEAKING TRUTH

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard.”

JOHN 16:13 NLT

Truth need not be harsh nor sweet. It is simply that which is true and remains true whether we acknowledge it or not. We don’t have to ignore reality, our experiences, or the experiences of others in order to uphold it. It stands regardless.

When we learn to recognize the truth for what it is, gratitude can play a part in our response. Think of the promises of the Lord, in particular his promise that he will never leave us nor forsake us. He will come again and make all wrong things right. He is full of mercy toward us. That is the truth we stand upon. Even with truths that seem overwhelming or unpleasant, our gratitude can be shown in how we choose to respond. We are not powerless, for our agency is always available. Let’s partner with the Lord and his truth and follow his lead of love as we live our lives.

Meditate on the promises of God and pray them back to him with a thankful heart.

JANUARY 5

SHARE YOUR GRATITUDE

“Go back to your home, and tell all that God has done for you.” And off he went, proclaiming throughout the town how much Jesus had done for him.

LUKE 8:39 CSB

There is power in our testimonies of God’s faithfulness. There is encouragement for others in our own breakthroughs. Our gratitude can inspire others to look for reasons to be grateful in their own lives. Think of a time when you were encouraged by the story of what God did for someone. God meets us each where we are, and he moves with mercy in each of our lives though the details will look different for each person.

Sharing our hearts with one another connects us. When we grieve with each other or when we celebrate with one another, we are showing the support found in a connective community. We were made to lean on each other. None of us is perfect, though we are all worthy of authentic relationships. Consider what you can share with a friend today. Simply tell them what God has done for you!

Share good news—and it doesn’t have to be new—with someone today.

JANUARY 6

HEART OF PRAISE

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.

PSALM 103:1-2 ESV

As we focus on the goodness of the Lord and his faithful nature and kindness toward us, our hearts will expand in response. As our hearts expand in awe, they will overflow with thankfulness and praise.

When we begin our days with hearts attuned to the wonder of God, his creation, and the gift of life, we can’t help but thank him. We can intentionally build this practice of focused praise in our lives. As humans, we are prone to focusing on negative things; the harsher realities of life are everywhere. Still, there is evidence that as we engage with the goodness in our own lives, as we purposefully looking for gifts in the simplest of places, we can train our brains to look for these more and more. What an invitation this is to turn our hearts in praise to our Maker today.

Spend time in prayer thanking God for specific things you are thankful for.

JANUARY 7

BOOST OF CONFIDENCE

What should we say then? Since God is on our side, who can be against us?

ROMANS 8:31 NCV

Studies show that as we ground ourselves in the present moment and focus on what is good, there are multiple benefits to our mental and emotional health. One of those benefits is self-confidence. If we want to feel better about ourselves, we can start by seeing the beauty of life and the world around us, as well as our place in it.

You were thoughtfully created in the image of your maker, and he doesn’t make mistakes. He knit you together with purpose and delight. If he delights in you, why shouldn’t you? You are wonderfully made, and God loves you just as you are; that will always be true. You cannot convince him out of his love for you, so why not try seeing yourself from his perspective? Stand in confidence that you are loved, you are accepted, and you belong in his kingdom.

Make a list of everything you like about yourself and when you’re feeling down, read it.

JANUARY 8

THINGS THAT MATTER

The kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

ROMANS 14:17 NASB

We can get so easily distracted by silly things that don’t really matter in the long run. Some call that “getting lost in the weeds.” When we do this, we lose sight of the bigger picture, and maybe even forget the things that we value the most.

There are opportunities in every area of our lives to refocus and refine our visions. As we intentionally define the values we want to live by, we can evaluate how to refocus our energy spent in terms of time, attention, etc. in order to support these values. At the same time, we can choose to give less time to things that pull us away from them. God is full of wisdom, and he will offer insight when we ask him. Let’s not forget to pull him into the process and ask his Spirit to reveal how we can put this into practice. Don’t forget that the fruit of the Spirit is how we measure success in the kingdom, not what we eat, drink, or wear!

Take some time to think through what is most important to you in this season of your life. Write down ways you can focus on those qualities in your lifestyle choices.

JANUARY 9

ASTOUNDING KINDNESS

Yahweh is always good and ready to receive you. He’s so loving that it will amaze you—so kind that it will astound you!

PSALM 100:5 TPT

It costs us nothing to be kind to one another, except perhaps our pride and patience. God is incredibly kind with us, and we can choose to act that way with one another. When we interact with others graciously, we make room for whatever is going on in their lives while offering respect. If we want to be like Jesus, we cannot overlook the very practical area of how we treat one another.

Consider how someone else’s kind act toward you made you feel. We have all received kindness in one way or another. In fact, we probably have known it in a myriad of ways. Kindness can go a long way in building relationships, but it also makes us feel better about ourselves when we choose to be kind.

Find ways to extend kindness to others today and reflect on how it felt to make that choice purposefully.

JANUARY 10

LOVED TO LIFE

“The Father himself loves you.”

JOHN 16:27 NIV

There is an inherent confidence and unshakable peace that comes with being seen, known, and loved. What a gift it is. There is little in this life more important than the relationships we have with those we love. May we not take them for granted!

There are people in your life who love you and those whom you love. Apart from that, there is a God who created you in love. Love is at the center of creation, for it is the very essence of God. Knowing this, our very grateful response can be to move in love today. First John 4:7 says, “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” Love is practical, generous, and life-giving. Choosing love may mean laying down our own preferences at times, but it is worth it in order to have a glimpse into God’s own love.

When you recognize something done out of love, thank the person for it. Let love move you into action toward others today.

JANUARY 11

GIFTS OF GRACE

By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.

EPHESIANS 2:8 NKJV

Grace is not something we can earn. It is extended. It is the gift of God. We can choose to give grace to others just as God does. When we would normally jump to conclusions or react in frustration, what would it look like instead to slow down and give grace?

The more aware we are of the grace we receive, the easier it is to extend it to others. It is wise, then, to allow ourselves to see the areas of our own weaknesses. What grace there is for us to be human, to err, and to make some efforts to repair the damage that we do. Let’s take perfection off the table in our own estimation of ourselves, as well as in our expectations of others. As we do, we create the space for grace.

When you are tempted to jump to conclusions, choose to slow down and make space for grace. Instead of accusing, ask questions. Instead of rushing on, take time to really see what’s going on.

JANUARY 12

GOD KEEPS RECORD

“Nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light.”

LUKE 8:17 ESV

Part of our gratitude in our relationships with the Lord is the very fact that we are not responsible for what we do not know or what we cannot do. This does not mean that we don’t transform as we grow, but it does mean that we rest in his infinite wisdom and leadership. He keeps record of what others forget. He never misses a detail.

Knowing this, we can trust him in his faithfulness to do what needs to be done. Let’s step back from feeling the need to control outcomes and instead rest in his ability to do more than we can ask or even imagine. When it’s time to partner with him in action, we can do it. But the rest of the story? The rest we leave to him. We cast our cares on him, and he cares for us. There’s no need to worry because he is the God of solutions, and he is never confused.

If you find yourself unable to shake anxiety or worry, write down the specific things that are on your mind and offer them to God in prayer. As you do, remember that he can handle it, and you don’t have to carry that weight.

JANUARY 13

COMFORT AND RELIEF

Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles.

PSALM 119:50 NLT

Sorrow and grief cannot be escaped in this life. They will enter our lives no matter what we do to try to avoid them. We can’t pretend that they don’t exist. It is not a failure to be sad, and it is not a lack of faith to grieve what is lost. Jesus grieved, and so will you. Gratitude is not in the absence of pain, but in the presence of goodness.

Even a tiny comfort can feel like a brief reprieve to a sorrow-burdened soul. The relief that comfort brings is beautiful. It doesn’t mask the pain, but it acknowledges that good and bad can coexist. Hard times and peace are not mutually exclusive. Even in the darkest moments of our lives, there is still something to grasp that is sturdy, true, and unchangeable. May we not lose sight of this but see it for the gift that it is.

When you are overwhelmed by hard feelings, don’t deny them. Instead, look for ways to touch them in the present moment. Can you be thankful for the ground that holds you up and for the air that meets your nostrils and fills your lungs?

JANUARY 14

BEYOND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we did in righteousness, but in accordance with His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit.

TITUS 3:5 NASB

There are probably things that you have accomplished in this life of which you are proud. These are to be celebrated. However, there are also good things in your life which you did nothing to earn. Where you grew up, who your family is, and other situational realities are not badges of honor that you earned. They don’t reflect your worth. They are simply where you were placed.

This may feel like a mixed bag, to identify the things in your life that have nothing to do with your choices. Still, this is much like the work of mercy. There may be some hard realities you have had to contend with, but there are also gifts you have been given. Spend time today looking for those gifts that are imprints of the Lord’s mercy on your life. You may be surprised by what you find!

Make a list of things you are grateful for that you could not choose nor earn.

JANUARY 15

SLOW TO ANGER

The LORD passed in front of him and proclaimed: The LORD—the LORD is a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger and abounding in faithful love and truth.

EXODUS 34:6 CSB

Gratitude has been shown to increase patience in those who practice it. Perhaps because gratitude forces us to be more present in our lives rather than trying to escape it, we can see the benefit of patience. When we are on edge, anger is closer to the surface. It may not take much to set us off. However, when we have some margins, there is room to take things a bit slower. When we are not in a rush, there is a tendency toward calm.

We all have issues in our lives that we want to improve. For some of us, that includes wanting to be more patient with those we love. One practical way to do this is to practice gratitude. As we do, our minds create pathways for more reasons to be grateful, and this happens in real time. God is patient and slow to anger with us and thank goodness he is. Gratitude can help us become more like him.

When you feel yourself getting angry, step back for a moment, take a deep breath and remind yourself of something that you are grateful for directly in that moment.

JANUARY 16

LED BY WONDER

Jesus called for the children, saying, “Let the little children come to me. Don’t stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to people who are like these children.”

LUKE 18:16 NCV

One practical way to find gratitude in our hearts is to allow childlike awe and wonder to lead our thoughts. What are the things that stop us in our tracks? It may help to consider what fascinated us as children. Play is as important to adults as it is for children. It has been shown to boost creativity, sharpen the sense of humor, and make it easier to learn a new task.

The seriousness of life cannot be escaped, but it also doesn’t need to be engaged all the time. Play helps us focus where we’re at in the moment, just as gratitude does. It is not a prescriptive thing either—it will look unique to each of us. What did you love playing as a kid? Perhaps you can allow your inner child to do that today. It’s not frivolous to spend time enjoying yourself! If Jesus encouraged the children to come to him, you can remember that you are God’s child and therefore act accordingly.

Do something simply for the fun of it today. Allow yourself to feel the delight of play.

JANUARY 17

FOUNDATIONAL PRAYERS

You know that I’ve been called to serve the God of my fathers with a clean conscience. Night and day I pray constantly for you, building a memorial for you with my prayers.

2 TIMOTHY 1:3 TPT

Prayer is a powerful tool for gratitude. In the process of letting go of what you cannot control, you allow your heart to open to what is true. As you pray for the best for others around you, you align yourself with heaven’s heart for them. God is a good and loving Father, and he loves to help his children. We can partner with his heart as we pray for him to bring about breakthroughs for one another.

James 5:16 says that “tremendous power is released through the passionate heartfelt prayer of a godly believer!” Don’t overlook the power to build both your own faith the faith of those around you with your bold prayers for freedom, provision, and breakthrough. Constant prayer can be happening in your heart as you keep it open in love, concern, and care, no matter where you are or who you are with.

Pick someone to pray for throughout your day. Whenever you think of them, thank God for them and say a prayer on their behalf.

JANUARY 18

SATISFIED

“The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.”

ISAIAH 58:11 NIV

One of the extraordinary benefits of gratitude is that is causes a rise in our overall satisfaction with our lives. As we recognize what we once overlooked and we appreciate the things we have taken for granted, we realize that there is goodness all around us. There is beauty in the lives we now live. We don’t have to wish for the future because we are grounded in the gift of the present.

Today is all that we have. The choices we make now will inform each moment as we continue to live. It’s up to us, then, to choose this day how we will live. Not only that, but the ways we interact with the people in our lives and how we think about them is important in forming our perspectives. We can find great satisfaction as we open our eyes to the provision that is ours. We all have reasons to rejoice today!

Challenge yourself to look for the good in your life throughout the day.

JANUARY 19

SMALL BEGINNINGS

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin.”

ZECHARIAH 4:10 NLT

When we have big dreams in our hearts, the meager beginning steps toward those dreams can feel underwhelming. However, we don’t get from a dream to a reality by simply continuing to dream. We must do the work. As we do, the plans become clearer and we can refine our path and our methods. What celebration there is in the implementation of a passion!

We become empowered as we do the work. The Lord is with us in every step. Recognizing that we are on the journey of God’s intention can allow us to stop comparing our own purpose and where we are to others’ paths. As we give our attention to what is ours to do, we can build gratitude for this moment, while recognizing that these current steps are also building for the future. Let’s not despise our small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices with us as we start!

Refuse to compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. Take one step toward the dream that you have in your heart and thank God that he rejoices with you as you start.

JANUARY 20

CONSIDER THE POSSIBILITIES

“With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

MATTHEW 19:26 NKJV

As we remember that all things are possible with God including what seems impossible to us, we refocus our perspectives on the power of God rather than ruminating on our own inabilities. One of the ways we can encourage this is to remember the hard situations we’ve already walked through. Where did our worries fall flat? Did we recognize that God provided for us in those past difficulties?

We can take courage for whatever we face through the faithfulness of God as we have witnessed throughout our own history. And God isn’t tired or unimaginative. He can do much more than he has already done. Let’s join our hopes to his power and our peace to his loyal love, for he can do far more than we can even imagine.

Instead of getting lost in the unknown, ground yourself in the gratitude of what God has already done for you, and look ahead with eyes of faith. Trust him fully to continue to take care of you.

JANUARY 21

CHEERFUL GIVING

Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of compulsion, since God loves a cheerful giver.

2 CORINTHIANS 9:7 CSB

Gratitude makes our connection to compassion stronger. As we recognize what we must be thankful for in our lives, we are often compelled to give to others out of the charity in our hearts. We shouldn’t give grudgingly as if we have no choice in the matter. We always have a choice!

Before we decide how we want to give back to our communities, let’s remember the things that have been so meaningful to us. As we look back over our history and recognize the gifts that others have given us or the seeds that they have sown into us, we may be able to more clearly decide how we want to cheerfully give to others. What an honor it is to use our gratitude to serve others! It is a beautiful reflection of God’s heart as we partner with his generosity.

Volunteer to give back in some way or consider giving financially to a cause that is meaningful to you.

JANUARY 22

BRIDGES OF PEACE

He himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility.

EPHESIANS 2:14 ESV

As we focus on that which we appreciate in our lives especially in our relationships, we are more drawn in grace toward one another. Offenses and walls of hostility keep us at a distance from one another. Love and gratitude draw us toward the other. Christ is our peace, and he is the ultimate peacemaker. He is the bridge between us and God, and his love can also bridge any gaps between us.

Gratitude strengthens our social bonds. This is so important to remember! If we are having trouble with impatience in our relationships, remembering what we love and appreciate about the person is a good place to start. Relationships are two-way streets; if someone doesn’t respond well or at all, we can choose to adjust our own boundaries accordingly. However, let’s be sure to do what we can to extend kindness and grace in order to do our own part as well as possible.

When you find yourself losing patience with someone close to you today, slow down, take a deep breath, and consider at least one thing you appreciate about them.

JANUARY 23

CONTINUAL KINDNESS

The LORD appeared to his people and said, “I love you people with a love that will last forever. That is why I have continued showing you kindness.”

JEREMIAH 31:3 NCV

There is power in our gratitude. Our thankfulness toward another can have a positive effect on their actions. In the same way, when we are grateful for someone’s kindness toward us, we may very well be driven to return that kindness. In short, kindness is contagious!

The Lord is the ultimate standard in loving-kindness. His love moves him in patience, mercy, grace, and peace. He offers us kindness after kindness. His mercies are new every morning. When we take time to recognize his kindness in the practical ways it shows up in our lives, we are quicker to return that kindness to him and to live that example in our lives. How different would our lives look if we ventured to outdo one another in kindness?

Take time to think of a specific kindness that was recently shown to you. Return it in kind today!

JANUARY 24

BLESSED CONSISTENCY

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

HEBREWS 13:8 NASB

Consistency is a powerful reflection of our integrity. When we are the same person with the people in our lives and we live by the same values and not change who we are based on who we are around, we reflect the security we have in our own identity. When we follow through on what we say we will do, or alternatively when we habitually don’t, our consistency—or our lack thereof—is plain to those in our lives.

Consistency, kindness, and trustworthiness are strong character traits. They reveal a lot about a person. Consider what you are consistent about in your own life. Do you over-promise and under-deliver? If this is true, it may be time to reevaluate how much you commit to. None of us is superhuman, and we all have limits. It is not a failure to recognize them. Be grateful for what you can do and be honest about what you cannot. There is blessing in this!

Take an honest look at your commitments and consider cutting down on the ones that don’t serve your values or priorities at this point in your life. It is better to do few things well than to overcommit and not do any of them well.

JANUARY 25

A LIFE OF PRAYER

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

Make your life a prayer. That is what Paul advised in his first letter to the Thessalonians. Pray without ceasing. That is how many of us may more readily recognize this verse. However, it’s worded the idea is the same—each breath can be a prayer. God can read our hearts as readily as he can hear our words. Let’s live as if our actions, our heart postures, and our thoughts are all expressions of prayer to our Maker.

Gratitude connects us to the goodness of God. As we give thanks to God for who he is, what he has done, and what he continues to do, it doesn’t matter what our circumstances are. He is faithful throughout them all. He never changes. He is always loyal in love, and he is trustworthy through every hill and valley of this life.

Open your heart and intentionally offer God the gratitude of your heart whenever you think of it today. Remember who he is!

JANUARY 26

REVELATIONS OF LOVE

No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.

1 JOHN 4:12 NLT

Acts of appreciation can show love to the people in our lives in practical ways. God’s love lives in us when we love one another. That doesn’t mean loving each other is always easy, but as we consider the attributes, we are grateful for in one another it helps to propel us to show it.

Think of someone in your life, anyone you are close to. Now consider the things about them that you appreciate. Do they do something that makes you feel loved and accepted? Do they do something to lighten your load? Perhaps you simply enjoy who they are; they bring light and laughter or support when you need it. These are revelations of love. As you choose to show your own appreciation in practical ways, you are choosing the path of love.

Show your appreciation to someone in your life in a way that they receive love. If you aren’t sure what that is, consider returning a favor that they have shown you!

JANUARY 27

CONFIDENCE OUTSIDE OURSELVES

Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.

DEUTERONOMY 7:9 NIV

When we become too focused on ourselves—when we are overly focused on our pitfalls, our victories, etc.—we can lose sight of the goodness around us. There are people who keep their word, offer support for others’ needs, or recognize the great beauty in the world around us. And through it all, above it all, is the faithful love of our Creator.

Pride can lead us to undervalue others and overvalue ourselves. The tricky thing is that a focus on perfectionism can do the same thing. When we are consumed by our failures, we fall into the same trap as those who feel superior to others. None of us is perfect, but we are all made in the image of God. We are loved no matter what we do. Let’s take the pressure off and thank God for his faithful love that covers us all the time!

Make a list of things you are grateful for which have nothing to do with anything you could ever do or offer.

JANUARY 28

FRUIT OF OUR LIPS

By Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.

HEBREWS 13:15 NKJV

What we say matters. The fruit of our lips start as seeds in our hearts. As we choose to honor God with the gratitude we purposely cultivate, we make room for more thankfulness to grow. Studies have shown that gratitude leads to the production of “happy hormones.” A boosted mood is just one of the benefits of this practice!