A Gratitude List
A couple of years ago, God inspired me to begin documenting His answers to prayers, prayed by me, and prayed by others. My gratitude list is nothing lengthy; it is just the date, along with a few words reminding me of how much and often God is blessing my life. The list includes ways God blessed me through his creation, wildlife, sunrise, sunset, and a flowing stream that sounds like it’s applauding God. Some are answers to recent and life-long prayers. Some are silly, known only between my Father and me, and some that have profoundly changed the way I see and relate to God and others.
Philippians 4:5-7 was the catalyst for creating my gratitude list, challenging me to pray with thanksgiving.
5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This verse reminded me that gratitude is vital to any relationship, including with God. After beginning the list, my heart and spirit became increasingly aware of the little and large ways that God was blessing others and myself in ways that only come from Him.
Using the list reminds me of His love, grace, and presence in my life and the lives of others. The list has inspired me to end this year by writing a letter of gratitude to God for all he has done and is doing in my life. I plan on writing it by hand, which is much more personal and meaningful for me.
A letter of gratitude is a great way to end the year, reminding me of His unfailing love, giving me renewed hope for the new year, and knowing that whatever the new year brings, He is always with me forever, for always, no matter what.
Perhaps you might consider writing a letter of gratitude to end the year and begin keeping a gratitude list in the coming year. Either will deepen your relationship with our Father; I am incredibly grateful for that alone.
I hope today’s blog has encouraged you. Make sure you sign up to receive blogs posted every week. At TransformingFamilies.org, our resources are here to guide you through the restoration process of developing your heart, mind, and strength, enabling you to become the man or woman God created you to be.
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