Do you ever wonder why certain people can go through horrific tragedies, devastating loss, and long periods of time with no good news with a smile on their face? How do they do it, right?
I think the answer is found in gratitude.
In 2017, Kevin Queen became the lead pastor of Cross Point Church in Nashville, Tennessee. One of the first messages he preached was about the importance of expressing gratitude, and he offered a practical way to grow in our joy regardless of circumstances. His practice is called the 1st and 10. It’s beginning each day by writing down 10 things you are grateful for. We flourish when we are grateful. If we don’t express gratitude, it doesn’t exist!
In the same way we practice eating healthy, working out, or writing, we can practice saying thanks to God. There’s always something to be grateful for even when we don’t feel grateful. Starting each day with a thankful heart sets us up for a day (or at least a morning!) filled with humility and joy. And who doesn’t want more joy, right?
Here are a few ideas to get you started on your 1st and 10:
- Health
- Family
- Friends
- Your Spouse
- Your Story
- Your Gifts
- Music
- Sunshine
- Coffee
- A Delicious Meal
- Your Pet
- Encouraging Words from a Friend
- An Unexpected Compliment
In the words of A.W. Tozer, “Gratitude is an offering precious in the sight of God, and it is one that the poorest of us can make and be not poorer but richer for having made it.” So, what are you grateful for today?