Find Healing through Gratitude

Gratitude is a small and simple practice that yields big results.

A couple plays with their baby in their house

The health benefits of gratitude range from better heart health to improved sleep. But long before science taught us about the importance of gratitude, prophets and other inspired writers of the Bible did.

The Psalms, for example, are full of encouragement to praise and thank God, teaching, “Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms” (Psalm 95:2). Jesus Christ set an example of gratitude through prayers of thanks to God on several recorded occasions, including His prayer of thanks before raising Lazarus from the dead (see John 11:41).

Gratitude doesn’t mean pretending problems don’t exist or never showing a negative emotion. You can cry over a loved one’s death and talk with a friend about how much you miss them while also feeling grateful for the time you had with such a wonderful person.

Principles of Peace—Gratitude

Jon’s life hasn’t always been easy, but he has found that gratitude is the key to living his life to the fullest.

2:09

At its core, gratitude means recognizing the good things you’ve been given and giving thanks in return. When you replace envy and discontent with gratitude, your outlook improves. You can feel more hope and build positive relationships as you become more pleasant to be around. Gratitude helps you better recognize God’s hand in your life and draw closer to Him.

These practices can help you build a more grateful heart:

Pray Daily

Flip

When you spend time on your knees in prayer each day, take some time to thank God for overall blessings, such as health or family, and for specific things that have happened to you recently.

Back

Keep a Gratitude Journal

Flip

Whether you write long entries about your life or simply jot down three things you’re grateful for daily, write down your blessings in a place you can look back on when you’re struggling to feel grateful.

Back

Thank Others

Flip

While we first and foremost owe thanks to God for everything we have, it’s important to express gratitude to other people too. Don’t forget to thank friends, family, coworkers, and others who have made positive contributions to your life.

Back