Gratitude and Your Mental Health

Happy Thanksgiving! This is a wonderful time of the year to reflect on all that we have to be grateful for.

I want to remind you of the role gratitude plays for us in our mental health. The Scriptures are clear – gratitude is a gift we give God, others, and ourselves. Science proves this over and over again!

Here is a short video on gratitude. Take a few minutes to watch it.

You see thankfulness expressed many times in the Bible (over 100)! The leper who returned. Peter’s mother-in-law who served after being healed. The Psalmists. Directors, choirs, and leaders, trumpeters, and musician in the Old Testament. Paul, John, and the Hebrews writer gave thanks as they penned their New Testament letters. And of course, our Lord often expressed gratitude to his Father.

So, how about you? Decide today to find ways of expressing your gratitude to God, your family, and those you love. My wife, Jackie has been using a “Gratitude Journal” for several years now, where she simply records her gratitude every day. She has filled many journals so far!

Check out the seven scientifically proven benefits of gratitude according to Psychology Today and other publications.

I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers – Philemon 1:4

1) Gratitude opens the door to more relationships.

2) Gratitude improves physical health.

3) Gratitude improves psychological health.

4) Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression.

5) Grateful people sleep better.

6) Gratitude improves self-esteem.

7) Gratitude increases mental strength.

The church setting is the the perfect place for recovery. Learn how to set up a Disciples In Motion weekend visit with Tim. It includes many different opportunities for mental health trainings in the church setting. Click here for more information.