Let's connect with our loved ones and with the values that are evident at Christmas. Let us begin this new year with a renewed gaze on the Glory of the Lord.
"Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe,." Hebrews 12:28
In this holiday season, it is important to remember the true meaning of gratitude and how we can express it in our lives. As good people, our faith teaches us to be thankful to God for all the blessings we receive.
Forgiving others will result in One of the most powerful ways to express gratitude is to forgive those who have offended or hurt us. By forgiving, we are following Jesus' example and honoring God. We cannot accept God's forgiveness if we are not willing to forgive others.
Spending time with Christ and dedicating a special moment each day to communicate with God through prayer and Bible reading. By spending time with Him, you will strengthen your relationship and be able to express your gratitude for all He has done for you. Prayer is a powerful way to communicate with God and express your feelings of gratitude.
"I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better." Ephesians 1:16-17
Sharing your testimony will give a powerful way to express gratitude is to share with others the testimony of what God has done in your life. By telling others how God has blessed and transformed you, you are honoring and thanking God. Your testimony can be a source of inspiration and encouragement to those around you.
A practical way to express gratitude is to serve others. During the holidays, look for opportunities to help those in need. You can participate in volunteer projects, donate food or gifts to charities, or simply offer a helping hand to those in need. By serving others, you are showing your gratitude for the blessings you have received by sharing with those who are going through difficult times.
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." Colossians 3:15
Give thanks at all times: Gratitude should not be limited only to holidays, but should be a constant attitude in our lives. Thank God for little things and for great blessings. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude at all times and in all circumstances.
Dedicating a daily and personal moment to this communication with the divine strengthens our connection with God and allows us to express our gratitude for His goodness and constant care. It is in this intimate encounter that we can offer our thanksgiving, sharing our joys, fears and hopes with the One who has given us so much.
"I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips." Psalm 34:1
It is very common to focus on the negative aspects of life. However, it is essential to remember that God does not assure us an existence free of difficulties, but He guarantees us His constant presence at all times and in all circumstances. Learning to appreciate the positive and to value every moment implies recognizing that God always walks by our side.
One way to express gratitude to God is to offer Him our gifts and talents, to demonstrate how we have used the virtues and abilities He has granted us. Recognizing that our abilities come from Him and employing them in His service is a way of thanking Him for His generosity.
Furthermore, by showing gratitude, we open the door to receive even more abilities, knowing that God expands our abilities when we ask Him with a grateful heart. Offer Him your gifts and talents, show Him what you have done with the virtues and abilities He has given you. The abilities we have come from God, and what better way to thank Him if not by being useful to Him. Our Creator can give us even more abilities than we can imagine if only we ask Him for it and are grateful to Him.