THE POWER OF GRATITUDE

We will come to experience a secure and happy life in recovery as we learn to be grateful and appreciate the smallest blessing of each day.  Being grateful and taking time to give God thanks for all He has done for us, will sustain healthy growth in our recovery.  No successful recovery is built while we are irritable and focusing on our problems.  Strength comes as we learn to give thanks to our gracious God who is good, and whose love is available to us 24/7. 

Give a lot of time and effort to prayer. Always be watchful and thankful. Give thanks no matter what happens. God wants you to thank him because you believe in Christ Jesus. Give thanks to the only one who can do great miracles. His faithful love continues forever. (Colossians 4:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Psalm 136:4 NIRV)

The miracle of being sober today is a gift from God.  Have we given God thanks for our sobriety?  Jesus died for our sins and offers us forgiveness for all the wrongs we have done. Have we accepted His offer and given thanks for the clean slate we have today? 

Since the practice of gratitude is so powerful, how can we make it an intentional part of our daily living?  At the top of our "To Do" list each day, why not put "Take time to be grateful."  What a burst of energy and joy we receive when we take time to give thanks.  Perhaps we might benefit from making a gratitude list in our daily journal or writing notes of appreciation to those who have helped us.  As we make a phone call or send a text to thank them it might brighten an otherwise dull or difficult day that they might be experiencing. For centuries individuals and families have gathered around a table to eat a meal and first give thanks to God for the food before they begin to eat.  Maybe it's time for us to add a moment of gratitude at our mealtimes.

However we choose to do it, it’s important to give thanks for the blessings that we receive each day.  There is great power in the ongoing practice of gratitude. 

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, You have given me so many gifts for which I am thankful.  I take this moment to remember and give You thanks for Your unfailing love and care for me. Amen