5 Reasons Gratitude Will Make Your Life Better

In 2022, God called our family to relocate for the third time.

But this time was different.

He asked us to move without telling us where. The true definition of crazy faith.

I WRESTLED WITH THE UNKNOWN

I had a lot of questions for God.

My emotions were all over the place. I cried out and begged Him for answers.

But I felt like I was getting nowhere.

Every day on my lunch break, I would take a walk and pour out my list of prayers about this move.

Then one day, during one of those prayer walks, I felt a gentle nudge from God, almost like He was saying,

“Forget the to-do list. Just spend this time thanking Me.”

Conviction hit immediately.

THE SHIFT: FROM WORRY TO WORSHIP

I had been so focused on the future, so wrapped up in the unknown, that I had completely lost sight of the good things God was already doing in the present.

He wasn’t asking for my worry

He was inviting me to worship.

To stop obsessing over what I lacked and start meditating on His goodness.

So, I shifted. I started thanking Him

For who He is.

For my life.

For my family.

For His provision and protection.

I thanked Him in advance for what was to come. And after an hour of gratitude, I felt lighter. Encouraged. Free.

Gratitude reminded me of God’s faithfulness.

That’s the power of praise.

Somedays we need to maybe not make it about our situation but make it about God and how big he is. God sees you and your situation, and he will never forget about you.

5 BENEFITS OF GRATITUDE (BACKED BY RESEARCH)

Research has shown that people who consciously practice gratitude tend to be happier and less depressed.

Here’s why:

1. Helps Fight Depression

Thinking about what you’re thankful for brings joyful thoughts to the surface, which can boost your mood and outlook. Taking a few minutes to reflect on what you're thankful for can lower cortisol (stress hormones) levels and can increase dopamine and serotonin (your feel-good chemicals.

The bible tells us in Philippians 4:8-9 msg

Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.

Remember whatever you focus on will be magnified. Time to focus on the good and beautiful things big or small that may be happening around you and thru you.

2. Reduces Stress

Gratitude shifts your focus from anxiety to peace. It helps you feel grounded and less overwhelmed.

When you intentionally reflect on how good God has been in your life, you stop panicking about the unknown. It reminds you that if God did it before he can do it again. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

1 Thessalonians 5:18

3. Improves Friendships

Thankfulness strengthens relationships. It shows people you value them, which builds trust and closeness.

Saying "thank you" or acknowledging a friend for something big or small tells them: You matter, you are appreciated, and this kind of recognition builds trust and deepens connection.

Not to mention, gratitude is contagious. When you are consistently grateful, it rubs off on the people around you. This is also great to put into action for a spouse or someone you may be dating. Everyone wants to feel seen, loved, and appreciated.

4. Helps You Sleep Better

Reflecting on what you’re grateful for before bed quiets your mind, helping you sleep more peacefully.

Shake off the day—not by scrolling through your phone, but by taking a moment to reflect and think about what good happened.

Grab a journal or keep a notes section on your phone to write down three things you're grateful for that happened throughout your day.

5. Boosts Physical Health

Lower stress= Healthy body

Gratitude reduces stress, which benefits your body. It’s been linked to stronger immunity, lower blood pressure, and more energy.

Before you start your day or after a stressful day, take a walk, head to the gym, dance in the comfort of your own home, or join a class.

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Scriptures to Meditate On:

Psalm 100:4–5

Enter His gates with thanksgiving; go into His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and His faithfulness continues to each generation.

Psalm 103:2

Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good He does for me.

A Simple Prayer

Dear God,

I am grateful for Your constant presence—especially during the hard seasons.

Thank You for the gift of life, and for Your blessings in the past, present, and future.

Help me to keep my focus on You and to never lose sight of Your goodness.

Amen.

Repeat This Daily:

“Thank You, God, for the miracles and blessings in the present—and for those that are yet to come. I trust that You always have my best in mind.”

Take Action:

Gratitude Challenge

What are you grateful for?

I encourage you to take some time to pause and reflect on how God has been faithful to you, big and small and let me know in the comments.