Gratitude.
Thankfulness.
Counting blessings.
AKA- ideas mentioned around the time of November, when everyone becomes excited about turkeys and football.

As I’m sure you know, being grateful isn’t just for Thanksgiving. It’s a way of life. It’s finding joy in the hard times, and giving thanks even when things look bleak. Counting blessings should be as natural as breathing.

Unfortunately, I often choose the path marked by discontentment and complaints. And this is something I want to change. I don’t want to be quick to complain. If I don’t like something, I want to learn to keep my mouth shut. I want the phrase “Thank you *insert name,* for *whatever*” to become a natural way of speech for me.

And I challenge you to do the same.

Because, not only do we have countless physical possessions to be grateful for, we also have a God who sent his only son to earth to die for us. If there’s anything we should be thankful for, that is IT.

Colossians 3:17 is a fairly common verse. I heard it TONS of times growing up. “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (ESV, emphasis added). Teachers at my private school constantly reminded us to do everything for the glory of God… but I haven’t heard the “giving thanks” part of this verse as much.

I don’t think the way Paul worded this verse was a mistake. If we’re doing everything in the name of Jesus, it’s only natural that thanksgiving should flow from our hearts.

And I want that. I want thanksgiving for all that Jesus has done for me to flow from my heart. Especially as Easter approaches- what better time to give thanks to God?!

...giving thanks to God the Father through him... Col. 3:17

I recently discovered Emily’s blog, Ember Grey. Every Monday, she hosts a “Grateful Heart” link party, and I think I’m going to participate in it, as much as I am able, for a while. I think it’s a brilliant idea to start off each week by being grateful, and I’m excited to be a part of it.

So, to kick start this attitude of gratitude: THANK YOU EMILY FOR THIS LINK UP OPPORTUNITY!!

Many blessings, sweet friends, and may you have a wonderful week with an attitude of gratitude!

*This post was linked up to Grateful Heart Monday.

4 thoughts on “Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude

  1. Gina

    This is beautiful! Thank you for sharing such epic truth with us, Kara! I have also caught myself complaining more often recently–and I’ve become disgusted with it. I hope to live a life more focused on gratitude, and living my life for our savior, thanking Him in everything I do!

  2. Justine Y

    That is so true! Whereas I strive to always have an attitude of gratitude, what better time is there really to express your love and appreciation to your Heavenly Father than Easter? Excellent thoughts, thanks for sharing!

  3. Christine

    So true what you say…so easy to choose those other paths…and hard to sometimes focus on the things we SHOULD be thankful for! A great reminder! xox

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