Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. COLOSSIANS 3:16
Which comes first, the gratitude or the actions that turn our heart toward gratitude? Does it matter? If you are feeling grateful, run to God’s Word so that it can dwell in you even more richly; share the wisdom you learn with others, then burst into song as you praise God with a heart that is already full of gratitude.
That’s the easy part. But on those days when you are struggling to feel grateful, do the same thing, even though it is harder—cling to God’s Word and praise Him anyway. It is amazing how gratefulness rises in your heart when you take your eyes off of yourself and put them on God.
I had one of those days recently. I had just been through a time of stress, meeting some big deadlines in my ministry, all in the midst of losing a beloved mother-in-law. I was weary in well-doing and struggling to feel grateful. But I knew what to do. I put on my headphones and went for a long walk with the Lord along the beach. I listened to music that quoted the truths of His Word, and it began to “dwell in me richly.” Then I began to weep and sing along at the top of my lungs.
Fortunately, the ocean roar covered the sound of my voice, so only God and I could hear it! An amazing thing began to happen, and my heart began to change from a weary heart to a heart of gratitude. I poured out the weariness with my tears, and I was able to breathe in gratitude as I sang praise to my God. The next time you are struggling to feel grateful, try the antidote expressed in this verse. And as you feel the gratefulness rise again in your heart, share your experience with a friend. Pass around this recipe for gratefulness, and you will all be singing spiritual songs of gratitude together!
Action Item: Pray for opportunities to share this recipe for gratefulness with friends. Guide them through it step by step and help them get started. That’s what fellowship is all about!
Are you grateful today? Did it take action to get you there? Share below.