Gratitude
As 2021 comes to a close, how would you rate it?
For most, it has been pretty messy as we've continued to deal with COVID challenges and uncertainty. For some, it has been a great year of blessing and growth from the Lord. For others it has been difficult, filled with disappointments and grief.
Whatever 2021 has been like for you, we all have much to be thankful for in the Lord Jesus.
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you" 1 Peter 1:3-4
I know that a statement like that can seem trite in the face of genuine difficulties and challenges. The Bible doesn't shy away from the hard aspects of life.
But thankfulness is not just encouraged but commanded time and time again in the Scriptures for Christian people.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossian 3:15
Thankfulness (or gratitude) is a spiritual discipline that we need to learn how to cultivate.
And we do it, firstly because God deserves our thanks and praise. But we also do it for our good!
Modern psychologists have begun to glimpse the benefits of gratitude - reducing stress, decreasing negative emotions and even leading to better overall bodily health.
So as 2021 draws to a close, will you join me in closing it with thankfulness to God? Here are some questions that could be helpful as you reflect on what you are thankful to God for in this moment:
- How has God grown you this year?
- Who has been a blessing in your life you can thank God for?
- What sins has God been dealing with in your life and your heart?
- How has God answered prayer this year?
- How has the forgiveness offered in Jesus refreshed you this year?
- What opportunities have you had to share your faith?
"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
his love endures forever." Psalm 118:1
Grace & peace,
Andrew
Some more helpful resources:
A podcast - https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/christian-gratitude
A blog - https://www.ccef.org/thankful-people/
A prayer - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/a-prayer-of-peace-and-gratitude/