Can I Be Happy? Yes, You Can – Chapter 4

CHAPTER 4

Have grateful heart

In everything, give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you

– 1 Thessalonians 5:18

A heart that overflows with gratitude becomes a wellspring of love. This kind of heart has likely experienced feeling unappreciated or unrecognized, which has ultimately led it to recognize and cherish the blessings in life despite facing hardships and challenges.

I will give You thanks with all my heart
– Psalm 138:1

The incredible power of a thankful heart lies in its ability to shift focus onto and deeply appreciate the positive aspects of one’s life, irrespective of their magnitude, rather than being weighed down by the negatives. Gratitude transcends being a mere feeling; it embodies a spirit of the highest character, embracing a spirit of generosity, genuine love, and heartfelt appreciation toward both God and fellow human beings.

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
– Ephesians 5:20

Practicing gratitude can profoundly impact your overall well-being. It can lead to a sense of relaxation and contentment, ultimately contributing to improved happiness. Additionally, gratitude has the potential to enhance your relationships, foster kindness, and boost your levels of optimism and self-esteem. Being thankful is a conscious decision that can pave the way for a more fulfilling and joyous life.

This feeling of gratitude is a profoundly warm and uplifting emotion that arises from a deep sense of appreciation and thankfulness towards an individual who has shown kindness or provided assistance. It encompasses a heartfelt desire to reciprocate the kindness and, if that’s not possible, to see the well-being and joy of the person who has helped. Gratitude is universally acknowledged as an esteemed virtue, representing a compassionate and generous spirit and a profound sense of personal responsibility and moral obligation.

When a person expresses gratitude towards others for their acts of kindness, they show appreciation to the individuals themselves and acknowledge the presence of a higher power in the universe. It’s essential to understand that sometimes, we encounter people in our lives who are placed there by divine interventions to offer us support and assistance. Therefore, it becomes our responsibility to express genuine thankfulness for their contributions. Whether we convey our appreciation through a simple ‘thank you,’ by returning the favor, or by openly acknowledging their kindness, these actions possess the extraordinary ability to bring immense joy to the recipient and ourselves.”

Acknowledging your value and appreciating yourself is essential to finding true happiness. It’s important to remember that, regardless of whether others recognize your worth, the creator who values you the most is God. Rest in the love and appreciation that comes from Him, finding comfort in knowing that your worth is recognized and celebrated by the divine.
Additionally, showing gratitude to the people around you is crucial. When you express genuine thanks to others, it helps them understand their significant impact on what you are grateful for. “When you cultivate a deep sense of gratitude towards God, you will naturally appreciate the actions, qualities, and presence of those around you. This will create a positive and fulfilling cycle of thankfulness, genuine appreciation, and true happiness in your everyday life.”

A heart filled with gratitude is a powerful shield against the various wounds and insecurities that can weigh people down and harm their relationships. It’s essential for us to dedicate a portion of each day to nurturing a sense of gratitude within ourselves, as this effort will yield positive results in our lives.
We hope and pray that we are granted a grateful heart by the Lord, who has blessed us abundantly. This grateful heart would express gratitude when convenient and acknowledge our blessings and favor with a heart full of joy and praise.

The fountain of a fulfilled heart is gratitude and praise towards the divine. It is crucial to regularly express thankfulness and exaltation to God for His continuous blessings and actions in your life. Reflecting on your triumphs in Christ and expressing your gratitude allows you to cultivate a sense of abundance and positivity. Your praises can have a powerful impact, influencing your mindset and helping you shift your focus away from life’s challenges. Those who understand the transformative significance of praising the Lord can experience victory over their adversaries and unleash the power of God in their lives. By becoming devoted to honoring and celebrating the Lord, one can gain strength to overcome significant obstacles.

Therefore, it is essential to actively engage in praise and worship and incorporate hymn singing into daily routines. As you become more familiar with these melodies and integrate them into your everyday activities, you will likely witness positive changes in your perspective and overall well-being.
Individuals devoted to gratitude and praising God often find themselves experiencing contentment, joy, and an enduring sense of true happiness.

Explore more from Dr. Pastor Emmanuel Atoe inspiring collection and continue your path toward growth and empowerment:

• Building Healthy Relationships: Adopting Measures & Approaches to Ensure Healthy Relationships
• Just Smile and Laugh
• Right Standing, Right Living: Comprehensive Steps for Anyone Who Wants to Make the Best Decisions for Their Life