Why is gratitude important in seasons of busyness?
Gratitude changes your attitude, gives you hope, and fights discouragement. As children of God, we always have reasons to be grateful regardless of what may be going on in our lives.
Here are a few passages that help me when I feel overwhelmed instead of grateful.
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching, and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms, and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:15-17
Gratitude and Thankfulness
Thankfulness is mentioned three times in this short passage. It is interesting to me that in these few verses, all of these things are mentioned together: peace of Christ ruling in our hearts, thankfulness, the word dwelling in us richly, teaching, admonishing, etc. An attitude of thankfulness or gratitude can bring peace when we are overwhelmed by our to do lists. God is faithful; when we are thankful, He makes the load lighter.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
Peace and gratitude go hand in hand.
Why is it important to be thankful when you’re busy? It keeps your attitude in check. In a busy or demanding season, we can feel like we’re the only ones doing something. We begin to play the part of a victim and become irritated with those around us. Our focus turns to ourselves instead of God. Our joy evaporates and resentment builds. The idea that I am the “only one” working, struggling, or fighting through a difficulty is just not true 99% of the time. Fight the temptation to throw a pity party by replacing it with an attitude of gratitude.
Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 5:20
Gratitude and thankfulness are so important. They counter the negative thoughts and feelings that can flood our hearts during a busy season. A warm meal, a cup of coffee, the ability to participate in the things that are adding to your schedule, are all places we can start expressing our gratitude to God. Remember, thankfulness and gratitude are a choice, your choice. You don’t have to “feel” thankful to be thankful. Instead you can meditate on the Scripture and start counting your blessings. As you list things you are thankful for, your attitude and feelings will change, producing a heart of gratitude.
