(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Colossians 3:16b Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.
There are seasons in life in which thankfulness comes easily. For some, the month of November is a great opportunity to reflect on life experiences for which they are thankful. Others may focus on birthdays, anniversaries, or other special life events. Yet there are a select few who make thankfulness a way of life.
Consider this: For the majority of people, there are likely one or two things which take up the majority of their emotional energy throughout a week. Dozens and dozens of thoughts, conversations, and situations arise, but there are those one or two things lingering in the back of their mind. It could be a relational challenge, financial hardship, or any other number of life’s stressors. But those who practice thankfulness don’t only think about those one or two stressors. Instead, they will identify at least three positive, joyful, thankful experiences each day. At the end of the week, there may be one or two stressors on their mind. But there are at least twenty-one positive memories over that same time period.
READING & PRAYERS:
   COLOSSIANS 3:16-17 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
PRACTICE: What are at least three things you’ve experienced over the past 24 hours you’re thankful for?
DIGGING DEEPER: Begin to write down a list of at least three positive experiences each day. Over time, notice the impact this has in your ability to be thankful.
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, today’s reading was eye-opening to me because I know I am someone who can easily get caught up in one or two significant stressors and forget to find joy and thankfulness in the little things. While I was able to think of three positives from the previous day, I don’t want to stop there. May I begin a lifestyle of practicing to be thankful for many things each day – both great and small. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)
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