Gratitude

While it's easy to focus on the negatives in our world, cultivating gratitude helps us recognize the goodness too. As James 1:17 reminds us, "Every good and perfect gift is from above." Our aim is to train our minds and hearts to appreciate the goodness around us.

Philippians 4

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Process

  • Keep an eye out for things to be grateful for. Research suggests that embracing gratitude leads to better health and a brighter outlook on life. So, train yourself to see the good around you.

  • Keep a gratitude journal. Take note of the moments that bring you joy, whether it's a conversation with a friend or the presence of a beloved pet. Writing these down boosts positivity and may inspire more gratitude.

  • Spread thankfulness around. Express appreciation to your loved ones and yourself. Embrace your uniqueness and acknowledge the blessings in your life. Then, share your gratitude with others—it's contagious and fosters a cycle of thankfulness in your community.

  • Make an Encouragement Box.  Find a shoebox and start to keep special cards and letters in it.

In a Group?

Create Trading Cards

  • Using index cards, draw and illustrate one thing you’re thankful for.  You can create 3 or 4 cards each.  

  • When you’re done, walk around and trade cards with one another…only if another card is true for you.

  • Gather back as a group and share the final 3 or 4 cards you ended up with

 Grateful Collages

  • Grab a stack of magazines, scissors, glue stick, and cut out words/images of things that you’re grateful for

  • Make a fun collage on poster paper

  • Then share your collage with the group.

Write Thank You Cards

  • Grab a stack of Thank-You Cards and have your group choose someone to write a heartfelt Thank-You card to. Then write it AND deliver it!