Thinking Gratitude
Greg Savage of Lee’s Summit, MO, USA
I lift up my eyes to the hills-
from where will my help come?
My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth. -Psalm 121:1-2
For several years, I have carried a small, smooth stone in my pocket to remind me daily to think about the many blessings I receive. Part of my daily devotion includes expressing my gratitude for God’s gifts of forgiveness and grace.
Often my mind drifts to the six principles of the Disciple’s Generous Response. I am reminded that all I have is a result of God’s abundant blessing of life. Jesus Christ gifts me with love and grace. I experience Christ’s gospel ministry through relationships at church and with fellow disciples. The Spirit blesses me daily with reminders of God’s presence in my life.
When I think of physical blessings, I am grateful for the resources I can freely share. The tithes I choose to contribute to my congregation’s programs and to the World Church tithes reflect my commitment to the gospel. The donations I make to other groups help me express my intent to see children and youth have safe environments, clean water and sanitation, educational opportunities, and a chance to reach their potential. What brings me happiness and joy is seeing lives changed for the better as a result of my giving.
I am most grateful for my parents who blessed me with love, discipline, encouragement, and generosity. They also taught me to think of the needs of others. I am motivated to carry on their generosity of giving. Then I think of the scripture that says when you are serving others, you are serving God.
I carry my gratitude rock as a reminder of all my abundant blessings.
Prayer Phrase
Let gratitude show you the way (Doctrine and Covenants Section 165:2b).
Spiritual Practice
Gratitude
Gratitude is an important spiritual practice that invites us to see all of life as a gift. We give thanks for our breath, the food we eat, people we love, and all that we have that truly matters. We remember that we are connected and sustained by a web of relationships with creation, God, and other people. Take time each day this month to practice giving thanks and to consider-for what am I most grateful?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
