Gratitude

“Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.”

Colossians 3:17

Happy Friday!

Gratitude is key as we consider walking worthy. A grateful heart has the ability to bring perspective and focus to life that crushes our typical default—to let circumstances drive our gratitude and joy.

As Christians, we can easily slip into patterns of discontentment and complaining. Politics, weather, inflation, and countless other topics become an incessant flow of conversation and negativity. Soon, there is little to no joy or gratitude displayed in our words, actions, or lives  - even amidst an abundance to be thankful for.

Circumstances quickly become a misplaced source of joy and gratitude. This can be especially and uniquely true for us as first responders. Personally and professionally, our circumstances often relentlessly bounce us around. With some of the rollercoaster moments, we can find ourselves striving for the next “thing” - or circumstance - to bring us fulfillment and joy.

Introspectively, I recognize that my own heart can quickly shift away from gratitude and become very negative. I find it necessary to pray and focus on gratitude regularly. I genuinely believe this will be a constant battle in life and, as mentioned, is common when we get our focus off of Jesus and on our circumstances.

Takeaways/questions to help recalibrate gratitude:

1) Take a few moments of quiet and assess your level of joy and gratitude. What is the source? Is it founded in circumstances or the truth of who you are in Christ?

2) Take time to pray and express gratitude to God about 10 “common things” in your life that you often take for granted.

3) Share two things you are grateful for with at least three people this week.

Gratitude, when linked to Jesus, is powerful. It breaks down heavy barriers in our hearts and redirects our focus on truth and God's promises.