Gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia,
which means grace, graciousness, or gratefulness (depending on the context).
Gratitude's definition is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives,
whether tangible or intangible. Studies find an association between gratitude
and an individual's well-being.*
People feel and express gratitude in multiple ways.
They can direct their gratitude toward:
The Past:
By remembering and being thankful for past blessings.
The Present:
By not taking their blessings for granted as it happens.
The Future:
By maintaining a hopeful attitude.
Develop gratitude, learn how to cultivate it, and accept the 5-day Gratitude Challenge by filling out the survey below anonymously.
After accepting the challenge, read a thought, prompt, or reflection for the day and act on it. We pray the habits developed throughout the week will continue enhancing your faith journey long after the challenge.
SCRIPTURE & REFLECTIONS
"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not the result of works, so that no one may boast." Ephesians 2:8
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request 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
"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving." Colossians 2:6-7
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the
will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Thank God for His deliverance in the past,
for His blessings in the present, and His promises for the future.
Thankful Habits
Researchers studying gratitude have discovered that individuals who regularly practice gratitude report a wide range of benefits.
Do Not Forget
"Yet I am the Lord thy God from the land of Egypt, and thou shalt know no god but me: for there is no saviour beside me. I did know thee in the wilderness, in the land of great drought. According to their pasture, so were they filled; they were filled, and their heart was exalted; therefore have they forgotten me."
Hosea 13:4-6
Worldview, Pain & Brokenness
“The great spiritual call of the Beloved Children of God is to pull their brokenness away from the shadow of the curse and put it under the light of the blessing.” Henry Nouwen
