Gratitude in the New Year

Now that we're into the new year, with fresh goals and dreams, there is one practice I hope to improve upon: gratitude!

In Luke 17:11-19 we read about the time Jesus healed ten men with leprosy and one of them comes back to tell Him thanks. Usually when I read that I think of how ungrateful the other nine were. What I fail to remember is that oftentimes God blesses me in major ways, and I go about my business in much the same manner; without even a thank you.

I want to practice immediately going to God to tell him thanks, and to give Him the glory for all He's done. I also want to get better at showing my gratitude for those around me. There's a few ways to practice gratitude that I thought worth sharing.

Say It

It seems simple. But actually saying the words "thank you" or "I appreciate you for ____" can go unsaid far too often.

Write It

Writing a thank you note. A few years ago I read the book 365 Thank Yous: The Year A Simple Act of Daily Gratitude Changed My Life. It's John Kralik's memoir of his decision to write a thank you note to someone each day for the entire year. It didn't look like he had much to be thankful for, though. His life was in ruins in every area. But once he found something to be grateful for each day, and shared those thoughts, he saw such change in his life!

Do It

Get creative by doing something. Gratitude is showing appreciation. If you appreciate that your church offers childcare for the little ones, volunteer to lend a hand. If you appreciate a family member who consistently invites everyone to holiday meals, lend a hand with preparation, cleanup, or bringing something. If there's a clerk that goes above and beyond to serve your needs as a customer, tip well and let the boss know they've got a winner on their team. How do you practice gratitude? Comment below!