Are you one who pauses to acknowledge all that God has done and is doing in your life? Great, if you are. But, if you’re not, it’s not too late to get started.

Praising God when life is good doesn’t take much effort. But, when you can complain about everything and the broken kitchen sink, but instead intentionally choose gratitude, that takes much effort and is commendable in the eyes of God.

“Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.”
— Cicero

Today, was one of those days for me. I woke up just being grateful despite all that has been coning my way. I could start a profitable lemonade business with all the lemons thrown my way. But, still, I rise.l, (Maya Angelou) and chose to be thankful instead.

So, why be grateful?

The Essence of Gratitude

In a world that often moves at breakneck speed—where the next goal, deadline, or desire looms just ahead—it’s easy to overlook what’s right in front of us. Gratitude, however, invites us to pause. To take stock. To breathe. It’s more than just saying thank you; it’s a posture of the heart, a shift in perspective, and a quiet revolution that changes how we see our lives.

What Is Gratitude, Really?

At its core, gratitude is the acknowledgment that we are recipients. It’s the recognition that we didn’t create every good thing on our own. Whether it’s the warmth of sunlight on your face, a friend’s unexpected message, a lesson learned through difficulty, or even just a new day—it all carries the imprint of grace.

Gratitude doesn’t require life to be perfect. In fact, it often shines brightest in moments that are far from it. It’s the whisper in our spirit that says, “Even here, even now… I see goodness.”

The Science and Soul of Gratitude

“The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation for goodness.”
— Dalai Lama

Studies show that practicing gratitude improves emotional well-being, reduces anxiety, strengthens relationships, and even improves sleep. But beyond the science is something deeper: the soul-level transformation.

When we’re thankful, we’re less entitled. Less hurried. Less focused on what’s missing. Gratitude reorients us to what we have, not just what we lack. It anchors us. It softens envy and quiets comparison. It makes room for joy.

Biblical and Spiritual Roots

Gratitude is not a new idea. Scripture is rich with the call to give thanks—“Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Not for all things, but in all things.

Jesus Himself, in the midst of a looming crucifixion, paused to give thanks at the Last Supper. That kind of gratitude—deep, unwavering, sacrificial—teaches us that thanksgiving isn’t always about the obvious blessings. Sometimes, it’s about trusting that goodness and mercy still follow us, even in the shadows.

“I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.”
— Psalm 9:1

Gratitude in Daily Life

You don’t need a journal or a formal ritual (though those help!). Sometimes, gratitude looks like:

• Smiling at a stranger who held the door.
• Saying “thank you” to your spouse or child, not just for what they do but for who they are.
• Praying a simple, “Thank You, Lord,” for breath in your lungs and a roof over your head.
• Choosing not to complain, even when you could.

It’s less about being overly positive and more about being deeply aware.

“Gratitude follows grace as thunder follows lightning.”
— Karl Barth

When Gratitude Is Hard

Let’s be honest—there are days when gratitude feels impossible. Days when the weight of grief, stress, or injustice makes it hard to find anything worth celebrating. On those days, gratitude is not denial; it’s defiance. It’s choosing to light a candle in the dark and say, “I still believe there’s good here.”

And if all you can be grateful for is the fact that you made it through the day—that’s enough. Gratitude doesn’t have to be grand to be genuine.

Closing Thought:

Gratitude is not just a feeling; it’s a practice. A decision. A way of life. When we embrace it, our eyes open wider, our hearts grow softer, and our lives—regardless of the circumstances—begin to feel a little fuller.

So, today, pause. Look around. Say thank you. Not because everything is perfect—but because even in the imperfection, there’s still so much to be thankful for.