It’s November. Can you believe it? A new month means a new discussion topic for the 4word blog, and this month’s theme may seem expected: we’re talking about gratitude. Before you roll your eyes and say something like, “Of course it is!”, let’s look a little further….

Gratitude, by definition, is “the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.” Thanksgiving represents the Pilgrims thankfulness for God’s provision. We all gather with friends and family to express our gratitude for each other and what the year has blessed us with.

But gratitude is so much more. Gratitude isn’t just about being thankful for a job promotion, or new friendships, or getting to go on your dream vacation. (Though you should be grateful for all those things!) Gratitude is about waking up each morning and recognizing the incredible gift of being alive. Gratitude is about battling pride and envy and all the “whys” that erupt in your mind every day, and choosing instead to embrace where you are.

Don’t think you have a gratitude problem? Well, how would answer these questions?:

• How often do you daydream about “wanting more?”
• What is your first reaction when you get some bad news?
• When was the last time you complained about something? Or when was the last time you expressed genuine thankfulness for something (not bragging)?
• How many relational connections do you have with people versus transactional connections?

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

If you think you don’t have anything to be grateful for, this month’s blogs are for you. Gratitude is as much a spiritual focus as it is a mental focus. How can you be grateful if all you’re looking for are the bright, shiny, positive things in life? God doesn’t promise any of us a life full of incredible happiness and abundant wealth. What He does promise us is that He has a plan for each of our lives, a plan divinely designed to help you grow as close to Him as possible.

Join us this month in a journey to adopt a spirit of true gratitude and thanksgiving. Our hope is that by the time you and yours gather together at the Thanksgiving table, you will be able to express genuine gratefulness to your Father, and perhaps inspire those around you to reflect on what they are truly grateful for this year.

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