On The Other Side of Gratitude

“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” I Thessalonians 5:18 NKJV

Sometimes, I am tempted to look at what I don’t have and feel bad about it. Other times I look at what I have and am filled with gratitude.

In some seasons, even when everything seems to go fine, my eyes focus on what’s not working, and I feel frustrated. And in some adverse conditions, I am not ruffled because all I see is that the season will pass.

Some days, I outline the dreams I’ve yet to achieve and feel slow. On other days, I look at how far I have come with my dreams and goals and feel like I’ve moved faster than normal through God’s help.

You are not abnormal when you feel ungrateful. It’s necessary sometimes to feel this way so that on those days when you’re filled with gratitude, you’ll realise that the ingratitude you feel sometimes is baseless and should never happen.

Nothing beats the feeling of gratitude. When we desire to always feel this way, we will reduce the time we feel ungrateful to God. When that ungrateful feeling sets in, our mind reminds us of a better and more satisfying way to feel.

Gratitude leads to joy, a fulfilling day, a higher sense of control over self no matter what happens, emotional maturity, and a positive outlook on life. It makes you more friendly and creates a contagious atmosphere where only positive feelings are transmitted. Anyone who comes into your space never leaves the same way.

We are advised to give thanks in all situations, not just because it activates more blessings, but because it’s the key to experiencing a better life, even when external circumstances don’t change. Life becomes better because internally, we change.

I wrote this article to remind myself to stay grateful, regardless of the unachieved dreams, the things that don’t seem to be working, and what I don’t have. I desire a different kind of day and life, so gratitude is a choice I must make.

I pray you always choose gratitude when the world begins to look gloomy so that you create the life that attracts all the good things God has for you.