Gratitude
An empirical study demonstrates many of the potential benefits of being grateful. This news of course is not surprising but a welcomed or friendly study. What we already know as Christ-followers, the Bible encourages, commends, admonishes, and challenges us over and over to be grateful. Here’s a small sample:
The Biblical Command: Be Grateful
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thess 4:16-18).
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phil 4:6-7).
For His mercy endures forever” (1 Chron 16:34).
“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (Col 3:17).
“Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,” (Eph 5:21).
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful” (Col 3:15).
If we function as Christians the way God intends, we will do better on every level – including our health. The Bible makes clear we are to actively practice gratitude. When we do, we reap the benefits from our inner-man attitude (Gal 6:7-9).
The Research: Be Grateful
In the article “Neuroscience Reveals: Gratitude Literally Rewires Your Brain to be Happier,” the editors of the Daily Health Post use the study to suggest that people who demonstrate regular gratitude enjoy better health, better attitudes, and better brain function. None of these things surprise us. Consider what God said to Cain in Genesis:
“Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it” (Gen 4:6-7).
The editors of the article also recommend several ways to practice gratitude better and see the good results. Here are two:
In times of hardship or stress it might seem difficult to be grateful. But if you really think about it, we all have something to be grateful for. If you engage in only one prayer, let it be simply a heartfelt “thank you”. Here are three easy ways to put yourself in the mindfulness of gratitude.
- Keep a daily journal of things you are grateful for—list at least three. The best times for writing in your journal are in the morning as your day begins or at night before sleep.
- Make it a point to tell people in your life what you appreciate about them on a daily basis.
They conclude their article with the following statement, “Through the power of gratitude, you can wire your brain to be optimistic and compassionate, making you feel good. The more you look, the more you can find to be grateful for.”
For yourself and others, choose to practice gratitude today!
KevinCarson.com | Wisdom for Life in Christ Together
