Do not be anxious about anything, 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 your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
With Thanksgiving here I thought I’d write a devotional based on why it’s important to cultivate the attitude of gratitude. Many studies show that having gratitude in your life improves your happiness, self esteem, and reduces your risk for depression. While I’m well aware that the roots of Thanksgiving are pretty dark, what I love about Thanksgiving is that it helps us to focus on what we should be grateful for. I think for many people, (myself included) it can be hard to focus on being grateful when we’re dealing with constant stresses and worries of life. Maybe we’re worried about our jobs, a family member, a friend, or a personal relationship; maybe we’re just straight up tired and need some rest. It can be hard during these times to really focus and look at what you’re grateful for. I think its important to recognize what you’re grateful for, but also to focus on why. That “why” is what makes whatever you’re grateful for settle in your mind and heart. Now, let’s focus on the verse, “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God.” Okay so Paul tells us our first step is to not be anxious and our next is to pray with thanksgiving, “let your requests be made known to God.” I love how in this next part Paul says “and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Think about it…when we’re praying for something and feel a sense of gratitude towards it, doesn’t that bring you some kind of peace? How does it feel to focus on that gratitude that the creator of the Universe is listening to your prayers? Even if you’re not a Christian or a believer, science shows that having gratitude helps us to be overall happier and peaceful. So hey! I think there is something to what Paul wrote…just saying. Today, lets focus on being grateful. Maybe your situation is one that you could pick out a hundred issues, or maybe it’s just one really big issue you’re worried about, but either way let’s focus on what we can be grateful for at this moment… I feel you if you’re struggling with anything right now, life is tough… but what are you grateful you? For me I’m grateful that I have people in my life who truly love me and want good things for me, I’m grateful that my parents are still alive, I’m grateful that I can read and write. I’m grateful for laughter, for family, and for my hardships that has helped me refine myself as a person, and I’m really grateful to God for always being there for me no matter how close or far I sense him to be. I’m also grateful for you, for taking the time to read to this.
God bless you. Happy Thanksgiving.
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life 