Cultivating Gratitude
I was only a college student but the words said in passing have stayed with me (many) years later: “Gratitude must be cultivated.”
I was at the home of one of my campus ministry leaders, joining their family for a home-cooked dinner (every college student’s dream!). I left with much more than a satisfied stomach, however. I left with an invaluable lesson etched upon my heart on the importance of intentional gratitude. It was the tradition of this family to go around the table every night of the year and thank God for three things. The children were young, but they complied. It was clear this was their nightly routine. The parents explained gratitude does not come naturally to children, so they desired to purposefully help shape their children’s hearts into grateful ones.
It does not take long to discover the wisdom of these parents and to see the need for us all to be purposeful in the area of giving thanks. It does not come naturally nor does it grow on its own. What does seem to come naturally are attitudes of grumbling, complaining, and dissatisfaction.
To aid in planting seeds of gratitude, I have compiled numerous Scriptures centered around a weekly theme for each week of November followed by questions for personal reflection or family discussion.
Week 1: Thanking God for who He is
Week 2: Thanking God: Following the example of Jesus
Week 3: Thanking God for the blessings He has given us (including one another)
Week 4: Thanking God in all circumstances
My prayer is the Lord would continue to water and grow these seeds, transforming our homes and our hearts! Click here to access this reading plan.
With much love in Christ,
Cara Blondo on behalf of the Women’s Ministry
PS - Click here for a four day YouVersion devotional series entitled “Growing in Gratitude.”