Three Ways to Grow Your Gratitude: A Beginner's Guide to Thankfulness

My grandfather taught me so much about fishing, hiking, and camping in Northern California. When I look at photos of the two of us in my old school photo album, I can't help but smile.  But more important than all the outdoor skills, my granddad taught me about gratitude without even trying.

When I first became a Christian in high school, I struggled with anxiety. I found this verse that said, "Do not be anxious about anything" (Philippians 4:6), and honestly, it made me feel worse! How could I possibly not worry about anything?

But then a friend showed me Philippians 4:5 ("The Lord is at hand;...).  I discovered that I could give up on anxiety because God is always close by, and I can bring my worries to Him.

Just this summer, my family faced some challenges. Our stove broke down, and then our AC quit working (during a Texas summer, no less!). But you know what? God provided. We never missed a meal and eventually got everything fixed. It wasn't always comfortable, but looking back, I can see God's hand in it all.

Reflection Question: What challenges have you faced this year where you can now see some good that came from it?

When I was younger, I used to get confused when people talked about "the church." I kept thinking, "Which building are they talking about?" Now, I understand that the church is not a place but the people of God working together to accomplish God's purposes. The church is not an "it" but an "us."

I love the story of Priscilla and Aquila from the Bible (Acts 18). They weren't preachers - they were tentmakers! However, they used their business and trade to support the early church's mission. It reminds me of how some of the people at Hope Church serve Sundays, making coffee, holding babies, helping in the parking lot, and many other places.  We each have different jobs, but we each serve the same mission.

Reflection Question: How could you help others in your community this week?

A few years ago, during what the weather people called "Snowmageddon," I learned something powerful about friendship. When there was the possibility that our water quality was in danger due to some water main breaks, a friend showed up at my door with two five-gallon buckets of water. I hadn't asked for his help - he just knew we might need it and showed up.

The Bible has an interesting verse about friendship: "Faithful are the wounds of a friend" (Proverbs 27:6). I've learned that real friends tell you the truth, even when it's hard to hear, and then stick around to help you through it. They don't just drop bad news and run!

Reflection Question: Who's one person in your life who tells you the truth with love?

I like to think of life as like wearing a backpack. God gives us our own load, including jobs, responsibilities, and relationships. Sometimes, life throws in what feels like a boulder—maybe a health crisis or a lost job. That's when we need each other most.
Here's what helps me stay grateful:

1. I try to notice the small things - even something as simple as pie at Thanksgiving!
2. I look for ways God provides, even during tough times
3. I remind myself that the church isn't just a Sunday thing - it's people helping people
4. I try to be the kind of friend who shows up without being asked

Want to join me in growing more thankful? Here's an idea: pick one person who helped you this year and tell them specifically what their kindness meant to you. I bet it'll make both of you smile!

Remember, gratitude isn't just about saying "thank you" - it's about noticing the good things and good people God puts in our lives. Even when life gets hard (and believe me, it does), there's usually something to be thankful for if we just pause long enough to look.

What are you grateful for today?