Biblical Answer

Embracing Gratitude: A Key to a Flourishing Life

Gratitude is a vital skill that can hold back even the darkest depression and push back against it. It begins with a sense of our own desperateness, recognizing that we are needy and unable to supply our own needs. This realization should lead us to appreciate the importance of gratitude in a flourishing life. The Bible teaches us that gratitude is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, as we acknowledge that God is the source of every good thing we have.

A Deliberate Act of Worship

As Christians, we should be careful not to hoard the blessings we receive from God. Instead, we should give them back to Him as a love-gift, taking time to meditate before Him and offer thanks in a deliberate act of worship. This act of gratitude acknowledges that our blessings come from God and reminds us of our dependence on Him. By giving back to God, we express our appreciation for His goodness and provision in our lives. This practice of gratitude is essential in cultivating a heart of thankfulness, which can push back against depression and bring joy and peace into our lives.

Remembering the Source of Our Blessings

It is easy to take for granted the blessings we receive, forgetting that they come from God. However, when we remember the source of our blessings, we can cultivate a heart of gratitude and thankfulness. This is especially true in our relationships, such as marriage. When we are thankful for our spouse, the control that contempt has on us is broken. Similarly, when we remember the effects of the Fall, we can appreciate the blessings we have and the salvation we have received through Jesus Christ. By practicing gratitude and remembering the source of our blessings, we can live a life that reflects the joy and peace that comes from knowing and serving God.