Isn’t it interesting how focusing on what you’re grateful for can improve your outlook? I’ve noticed that it can even make for more peaceful relationships.

But how quickly that “thanks-magic” can fade, right?

(I know, I know, sometimes as soon as Uncle Bob arrives, but that’s a different story.)

Is there anything we can do to hang onto that moment? Can we make it last past the turkey dinner and leftovers? Actually, yes.

It just so happens there are always reasons to be grateful. And the writers of the Bible are excellent teachers, pointing us toward reasons for gratitude. Here are just a handful of examples:

• Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. (Psalm 100:4)
• I thank my God every time I remember you. (Philippians 1:3, Colossians 1:3; 1 Thessalonians 1:2, and others)
• Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)
• Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

But closer to home, we invited the church family to jot down what they were grateful to God for at our gatherings last weekend. Here’s some of your responses:

You may have some of your own. By sharing them, you will not only perpetuate that life-giving spirit of gratitude for yourself, but you may well infect someone else with it. So go ahead. Add you comments below of something you’re grateful for. And then do it again tomorrow. And the next day. And the next…

-Pastor Mark