Develop an attitude of Gratitude!

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Col.3:15

With all of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday mayhem occupying center stage, it is easy to lose sight of the importance of being grateful for the truly valuable things in life.
As Christians, we believe that God carefully watches over us and every good and wonderful gift that comes into our lives is from Him. Therefore, it is fitting to acknowledge this and offer thanks to Him. The Bible commands us to make thanksgiving a big part of our relationship with God.

There are many benefits to having an attitude of gratitude. Here are a few:

1. Helps us praise God
2. Key aspect of prayer
3. Helps us escape self and love others
4. Brings joy in the midst of difficulty
5. Medical research shows that an attitude of gratitude helps us deal with stress better and produces better health and longer life

To receive the benefits from an attitude of gratitude we have to put forth real effort. Here are a couple of helpful ideas:

1. Make it a priority and focus on it  
2. Spend more time thinking about what you have than you spend on what you lack 
3. Identify your real blessings i.e. relationship with God, health, your mate, your children, and your gifts and talents
4. Remember, possessions may be nice, but they are temporal and start fading the moment you get them
5. Make it a point to stop complaining and start being thankful
6. God is very involved in your life, especially in the low moments. He is working a plan for your good and your thanksgiving in those times expresses faith and deepens your relationship with Him.

One of the most important areas that an attitude of gratitude is needed is in the area of marriage.  

In order to have a better marriage, we need to stop being focused on self and our unmet expectations and start being thankful for the mate God has given us!  

Marriages are much stronger in an environment of gratitude than an environment of complaints and demands.

To really explore the value of your mate, order your copy of our book by clicking on the sidebar and study the section titled, "Your real Treasure." 

  

Focus on an attitude of Gratitude this Holiday Season and see the benefits multiply in your family! 

For more ideas to help boost your marriage, order our book, I Still Do, A guide for the marriage journey.

    

Also, "Like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/I Still Do. 

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