Picture: Counsel #9 — Gratitude CWe 69.1
Surprisingly enough, gratitude is a powerful tool for reducing stress and improving overall well-being. As humans, it’s natural for us to first think negatively about situations due to our sinful nature. It takes work to consistently think positively, especially when circumstances are troubling and overwhelming. CWe 69.2
By shifting your attention to what you’re thankful for, you can directly lower the active stress hormone, cortisol. How does this look practically? Keeping a gratitude journal, reflecting on past and present blessings during prayer time, and sharing testimonies with others about what God has brought you through are all ways to create a sense of inner peace and contentment. Not only does having gratitude positively benefit your mental health, but research studies have proven that gratitude is directly linked to better sleep, lowered blood pressure levels, and a stronger immune system. At times, being grateful can be a hard concept to put into practice, but with God, anything is possible. Rely on His strength and ask Him for a spirit of appreciation amidst life’s struggles, for the benefits of gratitude are endless.[82] https://stewardship.adventist.org/page298 CWe 69.3
“I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever.” Psalms 86:12 NIV CWe 69.4
“Nothing tends more to promote health of body and of soul than does a spirit of gratitude and praise.” Ellen White in The Ministry of Healing , p. 251 CWe 69.5
Reflect: Do you notice a difference in your physical or mental health when you choose gratitude over complaining? CWe 69.6
