“The secret of happiness is to count your blessings while others are adding up their trouble.” ―William Penn
As we sit around the table on Thanksgiving day will we dish up a spoonful of thankfulness alongside the turkey and sweet potatoes? This day reminds us to be thankful, but what about the other 364 days of the year?
How Thankful Am I?
This question confronts our inner thoughts. Is 1 Thessalonians 5:18 being lived out? “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
It’s up to us to choose the thoughts we think. Will they hold thankful awareness for all things—or just some things? When life’s plate fills with troubles, it can be harder to express thanks. But in an unexpected God-kind-of-way, it’s the best thing to do.
My husband and I are in a difficult season. Serious health issues have been ongoing for the past three months. But in the midst of this trial, we find lots to be thankful for: The paramedics, nurses, knowledgeable doctors, modern medicine, communication, supportive family and friends who pray, every breath we take, and cell phone technology. There’s no reason to lose hope. Instead, the goodness of God is our focus despite what the day brings. Believing and applying God’s teachings, as stated in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, keeps gratitude at the forefront of our lives.
Count Those Blessings
Would you characterize yourself as a grateful person—one who counts your blessings? Would others agree with this assessment and deem you happy, thankful, and pleasant to be around? Or would they describe you as an ill-natured complainer? The answer reveals a lot. If the latter, perhaps it’s time to discover how being thankful directly affects inner happiness and health.
People who count their blessings experience greater peace.
Dr. Scott Silverii said, “Communicate with God through your day and make sure to show gratitude in things big and small.”
Validate Your True Self
It’s okay to have dread this time of year when it’s for good reason. Most families are eager to gather together, but if yours is riddled with broken, messy, or abusive relationships that’s a valid reason to feel anxious. It might even be easier not to think about celebrating. The holiday season magnifies the loss. This might be the right year to move beyond those painful memories.
As a child you had no power to change your circumstances. But today, as an adult, you do. You can forgive—even give thanks that you are able to forgive, and seek new ways to celebrate. List some new things you can do. A few ideas are: Do an act of service. Help another family have a Thanksgiving meal. Rake leaves for a neighbor. Take a mini vacation and do something on your bucket list. Take control. Reframe the holiday in a positive way. Negative self-talk begins to quiet when happier days are invited to show up.
Speak Blessings
None of us are good at reading minds. For others to accept our appreciation for them, it’s important to speak thoughts out loud. I grew up assuming my father loved me, but not really hearing it from him made me question whether he did. One day, after I’d moved away from home, a letter came from him. It said, “I hope you didn’t leave because you thought I didn’t love you. I do love you.” That short message changed my mind. Words matter. Can I encourage you to regularly speak love and thankfulness in your home? What might happen if you spoke three things each day; things you are thankful for to each member of your family? “Thank you for setting the table. It looks really nice.” “I’m so blessed God chose me to be your daddy.” “I admire your willingness to mow the lawn. Thank you.” “I know it took courage to be truthful. Thank you.” Every time we acknowledge appreciation for the good in others, we dish up a spoon full of thankfulness.
Prayer: Lord, help us to serve spoonful’s of thankfulness. Move us beyond our momentary troubles to see the joy You set before us. Our desire is to speak words of gratitude—especially in our homes. Please lead us to be among those who count their blessings on a daily basis. Amen
Coach’s Corner
The blessing of a thankful life can’t be underestimated. This month I’d like to encourage you to begin that journey. If you’ve got questions about how to get started, personal coaching is available. The first online session is free. To learn more, or contact me, visit rebuildingfamilies.net/coaching. I am ready to help you reach this all-important goal.
*Photo 1 taken by Sebastian Coman on Unsplash
*Photo 2 taken by Ann-YtJQ-jma-SE- onUnsplash
