As we near Thanksgiving, we are reminded to “count our blessings” and give thanks for what we have. This is a good practice, even if you aren’t Christian, but God also instructs us to give thanks and praise. Once again, God seems to know what he’s doing. It’s hard to be discontent and grateful at the same time. In fact, scientists argue it’s impossible. And, according to Amy Morin being grateful and counting your blessings has proven benefits, including:
- Gratitude opens the door to more relationships
- Gratitude improves physical health
- Gratitude improves psychological health
- Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression
- Grateful people sleep better
- Gratitude improves self-esteem
- Gratitude increases mental strength *
If you’re not already doing it, begin listing what you’re grateful for, or counting your blessings. You can thank God in prayer, list them in a journal, or tell a friend. Just be sure to make it a daily practice. Read I Chronicles 16:8-34, and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally!
Annie
Today’s Reading: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Chronicles+16%3A8-34&version=NRSV
* Amy Morin, What Mentally Strong People Don’t Do: 7 Scientifically Proven Benefits of Gratitude. https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/201504/7-scientifically-proven-benefits-gratitude, April 3, 2015. Accessed September 2, 2016.
Benefits of Gratitude: 31 Powerful Reasons to be More Grateful
Joy Lutheran Church Ocala, Florida 