Read: Philippians 4:11, 16

Think: Have you ever planted a garden? It takes time and effort. It also takes time and effort to cultivate joy and gratitude. You have to make an effort. You need to distract yourself by focusing on the cross, look through the lens of God’s grace.

If you feel the world owes you, you will be very disappointed. Henry Ward Beecher, “A proud man is seldom a grateful man, for he never thinks he gets as much as deserves.” Pursue gratitude. Chase it down. Major in the grace of God. Look for the good. Be profoundly grateful for what God has done. You will find the more grateful you are, the more grateful you will become. The more you feed it, it grows and the byproducts of gratitude are overwhelming. When you are grateful you will have physical benefits-anxiety lessens, improves energy levels, lowers blood pressure, and improves sleep. Sounds like a winner! Start cultivating.

Application: Notice the good things around you. Write a thank you note to someone and mail it.

Pray: Jesus, remind me today wherever I look of my blessings. May I be aware of the simple things and your goodness.