The Discipline of Gratitude
Discipleship S.T.E.P.S.: Equip
Scripture: In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Gratitude is a spiritual discipline, not a natural reaction. It is easy to be thankful when life is comfortable, but the command is to give thanks ‘in every thing.’ This is the will of God because gratitude is the primary antidote to a complaining spirit, which acts as a poison to our faith. When we choose to find reasons for praise in the midst of difficulty, we are acknowledging that God is still on the throne and that His grace is sufficient, regardless of our current struggle.
Start a gratitude journal or simply set a reminder to thank God for three specific things today—especially for things you usually take for granted. Gratitude softens the heart and opens our eyes to the hand of God that is at work in every detail of our lives. By disciplining your heart to notice the good you move from a spirit of scarcity to a spirit of abundance. Make ‘thanks be to God’ your default setting and watch how it transforms your perspective.
Prompt: Are you actively cultivating a thankful heart, even when circumstances are difficult?
Action Step: The Equip module teaches that gratitude is a spiritual discipline that protects our hearts from bitterness and entitlement.
Next Step: List ten specific things you are grateful to God for today.