We just celebrated Thanksgiving with family and friends a few days ago. As I reflect on gathering together and sharing a meal, I am reminded of how hard the holidays can be for folks who have had a loss this year or struggle with anxiety or depression during holiday seasons. Research suggests that one aspect of the Thanksgiving season can actually lift the spirits, and that is being grateful. I came across an article from Harvard Medical School and thought I would share some of the content to encourage us all to be a little more intentional during this holiday season.
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
The word gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia, which means grace, graciousness, or gratefulness (depending on the context). In some ways, gratitude encompasses all of these meanings. With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives. In the process, people usually recognize that the source of that goodness lies at least partially outside themselves. As a result, being grateful also helps people connect to God and others. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.
There have been numerous studies to support the benefits of gratitude in improving relationships. For example, a study of couples found that individuals who took time to express gratitude for their partner not only felt more positive toward the other person, but also felt more comfortable expressing concerns about their relationship. Managers who remember to say “thank you” to people who work for them may find that those employees feel motivated to work harder.
Gratitude is a way for people to appreciate what they have, instead of always reaching for something new in the hope it will make them happier, or thinking they can’t feel satisfied until every physical and material need is met. Which is a plus with Christmas season right around the corner! Spiritual maturity is promoted as people begin to focus on what resources and gifts God has given them in order to be a blessing for others.
“The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped.” (Proverbs 11:25)
Now let’s take some practical steps to cultivate gratitude on a regular basis.
Steps in Pursuit
- Write a thank-you note. Take some time to express through a written note or email your enjoyment and appreciation of that person’s impact on your life. Send it, or better yet, deliver and read it in person if possible.
- Make a habit of writing down things that you are grateful for on a regular basis in a journal.
- Pick a time every week to sit down and prayerfully thank God for the blessings you are grateful for. Sometimes it helps to pick a number- such as three to five things- that you will identify each week.
With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be easy to find yourself frustrated or reflecting on irritations while shopping or driving. Let’s encourage one another to be mindful of focusing on things to be grateful for and keeping a joyful heart throughout this season and beyond.
Continue the Pursuit,
Denise
