Two-minute read.
During the last years of my mother’s life, she required constant care. After undergoing an emergency surgery for pancreatic cancer, she developed Marginal Cognitive Dementia. In other words, she had no short-term memory and would constantly ask the same question repeatedly. Eventually, she would realize she had repeated herself and ask me, “How many times have I asked you that?”
Smiling, I would say, “Not enough.”
During those long days of working and taking care of her, I cultivated gratitude. Each day I got to spend with her, I thanked God for it. Mom’s health still required care, and work remained busy, but I experienced greater peace, responded more patiently and found divine strength. Joy didn’t come from my circumstances, but from the Lord’s constant presence. Gratitude changed my attitude, filling my heart with divine joy as I focused on what I did have, a mother that loved me and Savior that provided for me, instead of what I didn’t have.
Paul wrote his first letter to Thessalonians facing uncertainty, hardship and persecution. Instead of promising an easy life, he reminded them that hope came from Jesus. Repeatedly, Paul emphasized faith, love, hope, holy living, encouragement, and the return of Christ.
One of the most well-known passages in scripture, Paul didn’t instruct the believers to rejoice over difficult circumstances. Rather he encourages them to remain joyful because of God’s presence in every situation. We discover His joy when we seek Him in the midst of our struggles.
Prayer becomes our lifelong during stressful seasons, as it did during those years with my mother. Instead of carrying the burden alone, God invites us to bring everything to Him. Gratitude changes our perspective. Intentionally thanking the Savior, even for the smallest blessings, allows us to notice His faithfulness instead of focusing on our problem.
Practicing gratitude doesn’t eliminate stress, but reminds us that we never face it alone. No matter what circumstances you find yourself in today, find one thing to thank God for in it, then find another, and another. Watch as God transforms your heart and mind in the midst of your struggles and gives you His joy which will strengthen you.
Journal Questions:
- What are you thankful for today?
- How does gratitude affect your stress?
- What blessing have you overlooked?
Stressbuster:
Send a thank-you note.
