Step Nine: Embracing Gratitude
from SooulConnect
We cultivate gratitude when we recognize that God has shown us immense love by sending His Son to liberate us from the devil’s tyranny, our sinful human condition, and the perils of both spiritual and physical death. This attitude of gratitude acts as a key motivation for our souls—for everything that makes up who we are. Our souls glorify God through our prayers and praise and our thoughts, words, and acts. Belonging to God is our only comfort in life and death.
Rather than acting out of fear or obligation, our relationships with God, ourselves, and others are grounded in love, guided by enduring gratitude for His boundless grace.
As new creations in Christ, we give back our time, resources, and unique talents, presenting ourselves as living offerings to glorify God.
We are not merely reborn; we have transformed individuals who wholeheartedly embrace the Ten Commandments and God’s grace-inspired guidelines as invaluable roadmaps for a life of thankful living.
We welcome the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to comfort, guide, call, and gift us for our lives of ministry or service. Committed to spiritual growth, we continually cultivate the fruits of the Spirit in our lives.
Reflection:
Reflect on the power of embracing gratitude in your life. Consider the following questions:
- What are you most grateful for right now?
- How does gratitude change your perspective?
- What steps can you take to cultivate a more grateful heart?
Discussion:
Share your thoughts with your group or accountability partner. Discuss the role of gratitude in shaping your outlook and nurturing your relationship with God.
Application:
- Start a gratitude journal to record daily blessings.
- Practice thanking God in both joyful and challenging circumstances.
- Express gratitude to those around you and encourage them to do the same.
Next, we will explore Step 10: Integrating a Christian Worldview.