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Why Giving Thanks is Good for Your Spiritual and Mental Health – We Give Thanks – Day 12

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God is Love

November 12 – Give thanks for God’s love.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” Psalm 136:2

The Bible is full of verses about giving thanks. In fact, the book of Psalms is filled with praises to God for His many blessings. One of my favorite verses about giving thanks is from Psalm 136:2, which says, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.”

When we take time each day to give thanks for all that God has done for us, it not only lifts our spirits and fills us with joy, but it also has a positive impact on our mental health. In this blog post, we will explore some of the benefits of giving thanks and look at why it is so important for our spiritual and mental well-being.

The act of gratitude has been shown to increase our overall happiness and satisfaction with life. In one study, participants who kept a gratitude journal reported feeling more satisfied with their lives and were also more likely to make progress towards personal goals. Additionally, gratitude has been linked with better sleep and less fatigue.

So why is gratitude so good for us? One reason may be because it helps us to focus on the positive aspects of our lives. When we take time to remember all the good things that have happened to us, it can shift our perspective and help us to see the glass half full instead of half empty. Additionally, gratitude helps us to appreciate what we have instead of always wanting more.

One of the best things about gratitude is that it is a choice. We can choose to focus on the negative or the positive, but gratitude will always give us a more positive outlook. So next time you are feeling down, take a few minutes to write down everything you are thankful for. It may just be the boost you need to help you see the good in your life.

We Give Thanks - Thanksgiving Prayer Initiative

When was the last time you spent considerable time focusing on God’s love for you?

Ponder, Personalize, and Practice

  1. How have you seen God’s love change your life?
  2. What are some specific examples of how God has shown you His love?
  3. What does it mean to you to be loved by God?
  4. Why do you think it’s important to give thanks for God’s love?
  5. What are some things you’re grateful for because of God’s love in your life?

Prayer

Father, thank you for your steadfast and faithful love. I am often unfaithful in my love and divided in my heart regarding my relationship with you. I am tempted to look for other things and people to satisfy me rather than finding my security and satisfaction in your love for me. Please forgive me. Please incline my heart to be devoted to you because you are infinitely devoted to me. Remind me of the depth of your love by giving your precious Son for me. By your Holy Spirit, please help me to rest in your love. In Jesus’ matchless name, I pray, Amen.

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About James and Lessons for Life 

Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 25 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are on a search for freedom, you will love being part of this conversation.

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