I have to admit, I have a love-hate relationship with gratitude. Partly because of my religious upbringing, and partly because I struggle with taking on too much. When I hear the command, “Be grateful,” I sometimes feel resentment or even anger creeping up in me. The question is, “how to do be grateful when you don’t feel like it?”
Empty Platitudes
In the article, “How to Practice Gratitude When You Don’t Feel Grateful,” therapist Julie Williamson says:
Dr. Robert Emmons is one of the world’s leading scientific researchers on the subject of gratitude. He defines gratitude as an affirmation of goodness that comes from a source outside of one’s self. He writes that practicing gratitude does not mean we ignore complaints, burdens, or the fact that our lives are not perfect. Instead, practicing gratitude leads us to identify the goodness in our lives, as well as acknowledge the big and small gifts that come from other people and/or a Higher Power to help us achieve this goodness in our lives.”
Change of Heart
Instead of commanding that you turn and be grateful for the things you do have, I’d like to suggest that you lean on God to fill in the gaps and provide hope right in the middle of your messy situation. I often find that I can’t change my own heart–God has to do it for me.
You might have been downsized, lost your job, or are stuck doing work that isn’t fulfilling.
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18 ESV
[Ponder and Pray]
What is one thing difficult thing you can present to God and ask him to help shift your perspective?
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:26 ESV
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 ESV
Can you pick one failed plan from the past year, think about it briefly, then commit this plan or activity to the Lord? Ask him to help you be okay with the loss, or breathe new life into the next iteration of the plan.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” Lamentations 3:22-24 ESV
Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16 ESV
