Hello, Bridgeway family!
As we conclude this week of celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to share a simple yet transformative discipline that has profoundly shaped my year: journaling daily about gratitude. Each day, I try my best to reflect on four things I am grateful for. It could be things from the day before or the day ahead. It’s incredible how a few moments of reflection each day can realign our perspective, deepen our sense of community, strengthen relationships, and nurture our overall well-being.
Why journal about four things? It’s a number small enough to feel achievable yet significant enough to create meaningful change. Gratitude journaling is like putting on spiritual glasses that allow us to focus on God’s abundant blessings—even amid life’s challenges.
The Bible speaks often of gratitude, offering us timeless wisdom about its power:
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
(1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Notice this verse doesn’t ask us to give thanks FOR all circumstances. That would be difficult—how could we rationalize being thankful for sickness, family division, or loss? Instead, Paul urges us to give thanks IN all circumstances. Even in seasons of struggle, we can still find glimmers of God’s grace. Gratitude in difficult times shifts our hearts from despair to hope, reminding us that God’s hand is still at work.
“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name.”
(Psalm 100:4)
Gratitude opens the door to experiencing God’s presence more fully. Personally, I find morning to be the best time for journaling. It sets the tone for my day, allowing me to reflect on who or what contributed something positive to my life the day before. Often, I’ll send a quick text of thanks to someone who made an impact in my life. This small act strengthens relationships and spreads encouragement. I also take time to review my calendar, identifying events or meetings to be grateful for. Starting the day with gratitude creates a ripple effect, influencing how I interact with others throughout the day.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”
(Colossians 3:17)
When we acknowledge God as the source of every good gift, gratitude transforms even the smallest moments into acts of worship. Journaling reminds us of His provision, protection, and unchanging goodness in our lives.
Beyond its spiritual benefits, gratitude has profound effects on our mental and emotional health. Research shows that regular gratitude practices improve mood, strengthen relationships, and build resilience. It fosters joy, even in hard seasons, and helps us connect more deeply with others.
So, as a church community, let’s embark on this practice together. Here’s a simple way to start:
- Find a quiet moment. Dedicate time in the morning, evening, or whenever works best for you.
- Reflect on your day. Look for moments, people, or blessings that stand out.
- Write down four specific things you’re grateful for. Be as detailed as possible to deepen your connection to those blessings.
- Thank God in prayer. Acknowledge His hand in the blessings you’ve noted.
Let’s cultivate grateful hearts together as we journey in faith. If this practice brings you encouragement or insights, I’d love to hear your story. Share how gratitude journaling has impacted your life. We can inspire one another to see God’s goodness more clearly.
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