IN OUR CELEBRATE DISCIPLINE COLUMN EACH MONTH WE ARE LEARNING A NEW SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE, HOW TO APPLY IT AND HOPEFULLY GROW INTO THE PEOPLE GOD WANTS US TO BE.
SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES: habits that nurture spiritual growth; exercises unto godliness.
GRATITUDE: a thankful and loving response toward God for His presence with us and goodness to us; joy in our heart in response to someone for who they are or something they have done.
For years we've heard the saying, "Have and attitude of gratitude." But I've come to learn that being grateful is more than an attitude. It's a practice. You can have an attitude about something without acting on it. Not until we begin practicing gratitude consistently will we see real change in our lives.
How can we practice gratitude?
How can we practice gratitude?
- Gratitude starts first with a change of heart. Only when look beyond ourselves and see the good around us, in other people, in nature, in our pets, can we begin to walk in gratitude each day.
- For me keeping a gratitude journal has been helpful. Taking a few moments before bed to reflect on the good things of the day. I'm not as faithful to it as I'd like to be. But at least I'm making the effort to start.
- Making a conscious decision to thank others. So many times we get lazy and overlook the kindness of people around us. You will make someone else's day better by noticing them.
Gratitude enhances satisfaction and balances greed and entitlement. And is so lacking in today. It starts with us. We must make the effort, to take the first step. It can change our world!
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17
If you can't see the video screen below CLICK HERE and let your gratefulness overflow into blessings all around you!
RESOURCES:
Spiritual Disciplines Handbook by Adele Ahlberg Calhoun
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