Stuffed with Gratitude
How easy it is to over-indulge in our Thanksgiving feasts. I admit, I eat too much. There are just too much good options! But as I reflect on this annual holiday, I don’t want food to be my focus. Today and every day, my desire is to be Stuffed with Gratitude—filled to overflowing with thankfulness to my God who supplies all my needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)
Not Feeling Grateful?
Granted, maybe it’s been a tough year for you. Perhaps giving thanks feels more like a duty than a delight. It can seem that some people have so much, while others are barely holding on. Their lives appear picture perfect—while yours may feel messy and uncertain.
However, the comparison game never brings peace.
Interestingly, I’ve often noticed that those who have very little, are the quickest to offer praise. It’s not the size or sparkle of the blessing that matters. Instead, it’s a posture of humbleness and recognizing where the blessings come from. Gratitude grows when we acknowledge the Giver.
Remembering Produces Gratitude
Gratitude is not rooted in our feelings. No doubt, our feelings can easily lead us astray. In fact, the best time to offer thanks is when we don’t feel like it! In these moments, thanksgiving becomes a step of faith and a beautiful act of worship.
Gratitude is activated by remembering.
Remember His marvelous works which He has done. His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth. Psalms 105:5
This I recall to my mind. Therefore, I have hope. Lamentations 3:21,
Remembering leads to gratitude.
Gratitude produces hope.
That’s a cycle worth repeating.
Stuffed with Gratitude
So yes… I want to stuff myself. I want to be Stuffed with Gratitude– not only on Thanksgiving Day, but every day!
Listen to this fun song which is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and thankfulness in your heart. https://youtu.be/mBGD5hGRFLo?si=dvcbOTz33NcJ4fwC
Prayer:
Jesus, in good times and in bad, help me maintain a posture of gratitude for You, and all You have done in my life. Amen.
Questions to Consider
- Who comes to mind as someone who lives with overflowing gratitude?
- What are you are thankful for today?
- How can you intentionally practice gratitude each day?
Sarah
Thank you for this wise reminder, Maria! These past few days I’ve been so focused on family drama, but this was just what I needed. Adjusting my posture to praise and fixing my gaze on Jesus is just what I needed.
Maria Whitrock
Hi Sarah. I totally know what you mean! I love the phrase ‘fixing my gaze on Jesus’. Let’s prayer for one another as we lean into a heart of gratitude. I miss seeing you!