A Grateful Perspective

“Stay alert, with your eyes open in gratitude.” (Colossians 4:2 MSG)

As a runner, some part of my body is regularly sore or injured. As soon as I wake up, I do a mental scan of my body. I tend to fixate on whatever is ailing rather than all that is working. As I go about my day, I am aware of every niggle and cramp. I complain to my running friends, because most of them can relate to what I am going through. It is not that I don’t appreciate my body and its ability to function; I do...but it is not my default setting. What if I took an inventory of all that is well and good? 

Gratitude takes intentional attentiveness and reinforcement. There are several steps to developing a grateful perspective:

1. Acknowledgement--Vigilantly look out for what is good and right. Be fully conscious of every blessing.  
2. Appreciation--Recognize the value of all that you have. Be thankful.
3. Expression--Reveal gratitude through your words and actions. 
4. Change in mindset--Continual practice develops new ways of thinking. Learn to scan your life and notice all that is good.

Gratefulness is not merely a variation of positive thinking or optimism. It is not a denial of pain. Instead, it is a refocusing, a reaffirmation--that even in the midst of suffering, we can be attentive and develop a perspective of gratitude. 

Diligent Prayer

“Pray diligently.” (Colossians 4:2 MSG)

I have a habit of texting my husband throughout the day. It doesn’t have to be anything important; I just like to share whatever I am thinking and doing. I want his input and feedback. I also stay in touch with my closest friends regularly. However, I only share the details of my life with the ones I trust completely. 

Prayer is consistent communication with God. There are many ways to connect with God: study, contemplate, talk, write, praise, sing. We can share our thoughts, emotions, desires, and plans. We can ask the Lord for HIS input into everything we are doing and feeling. Unless we know God intimately and trust Him completely, we won’t feel like seeking Him out consistently. Diligent prayer is persistent and earnest. It takes effort and practice. God is invited into every thought and action. Partnering with God this way, throughout each day, enables us to remain focused on His purposes. His reassuring presence strengthens us. His wisdom saturates our minds. His directions keep us on track.