Take a Step Closer to God’s Heart

You’re juggling work, family and a myriad of responsibilities. Perhaps your days are filled with driving your children to practice, attending their games and grabbing dinner on the go. Amidst all this, you’re also seeking a deeper connection with God. Life’s challenges can sometimes make it hard to find reasons to be grateful. But here’s the thing: choosing gratitude, especially during trials, can be a game-changer for your soul.

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

– 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV

When you opt for gratitude, you’re essentially saying, “God, I trust You. Even if I can’t see the full picture, I know You’re working things out for my good.” It’s like a sweet surrender, acknowledging that God is in control and His plans are always better than ours.

Paul’s reminder in today’s verse is God’s will. When you align your will with His by choosing gratitude, you open the door to a peace that’s hard to describe but so comforting to experience.

When you opt for gratitude, you’re essentially saying, “God, I trust You.”

So, how can you start this journey toward choosing gratitude? One simple step is to keep a gratitude journal. Each day, jot down three things you’re thankful for. They don’t have to be monumental—sometimes it’s the small blessings that make the biggest impact. This practice can help you shift your focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right, reminding you of God’s constant presence and endless love.

Another way is to lean into your community of faith. Share your highs and lows with them. Let them pray for you and offer you the kind of support that only comes from people who get what it means to walk with God.

Choosing gratitude is a daily decision, and it takes practice doing it! And it’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. When you make that choice, you’re not just following God’s will—you’re also inviting His peace to guard your heart and mind, just like Philippians 4:7 promises.

So today, as you navigate through your busy life, take a moment to jot down those three things you’re grateful for. It’s a small step, but one that can lead you closer to God’s heart.

Today’s One Thing

Start your gratitude journal today. Write down three things you’re thankful for each day going forward. Once a week, go back and review what you wrote down. This simple practice can help you focus on the positive and recognize God’s goodness in your life.

Go Deeper

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