The Power of Gratitude – How being thankful shifts your mindset and deepens your faith
There is power in being thankful. I remember in 2021, after my children's accidents, some of my family members said, "We had a hard year." But I thought to myself, I didn't have a hard year; I had a couple of rough months. Even in those months, I can look back and find things to be grateful for.
Like when I was sitting alone in the airport after learning of my son’s passing, and the way Southwest Airlines took care of me—that kindness, that moment of compassion, is something I will forever be grateful for. Gratitude isn't just about the big things; it's about recognizing what may seem like small moments and seeing the hand of God in them. I would much rather see the glass half full than half empty.
Day by day, while TeAsia was in a coma, God continued to strengthen her, and for that, I was and am so grateful. Because I praise God at all times, I lack nothing, and the Bible tells me so.
Profiting from Trials
James 1:2-4 (NKJV):
"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing."
We experience hard times, trials, and tribulations as a testament to God’s grace and mercy—to show others that they are not alone and that God will see them through. I have no doubt that when I felt weak, my faith and prayers kicked into gear, and because of that, God comforted me.
The Apostle Paul has written powerful scriptures on thanksgiving, and the Thanksgiving Psalms are some of my favorites to turn to in times of reflection and gratitude.
Psalm 107:1-9 (NIV)
1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
2 Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe,
3 those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south.
4 Some wandered in desert wastelands, finding no way to a city where they could settle.
5 They were hungry and thirsty, and their lives ebbed away.
6 Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
7 He led them by a straight way to a city where they could settle.
8 Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind,
9 for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.
This first verse is one that I hold dear— "His love endures forever." Do you know what that means? FOREVER is a long time. And because I give thanks, He continues to love me.
So, the next time you start to think you're having a rough day, remember—it may just be a rough hour. Don't let that hour steal the joy of your full 24 hours. I challenge you to immediately start giving thanks and see how your mindset shifts as our Father begins to comfort you. In turn, your day will change as well. 🙏🏽
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude. Thank You for Your endless love and the many blessings, both big and small, that fill our lives each day. Help us to always see Your goodness, even in the midst of trials. Teach us to be still, to trust in Your perfect plan, and to count it all joy when challenges arise. May we never forget that Your love endures forever, and in giving thanks, we draw closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 🙏🏽
What are you grateful for today? Drop it in the comments below! 💛
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