Be happy [in your faith] and rejoice and be glad-hearted continually (always); be unceasing in prayer [praying perseveringly]; thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks]….

— 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (AMPC)

Just as the food we eat turns into energy for our bodies, gratitude is the fuel for joy. Ungrateful people only see and focus on what they do not have. Therefore, they are never able to be joyful in what they do have. One of the best habits you can develop is to begin each day with true gratitude. Be specific and thank God and people (when appropriate) for the blessings they provide. What are you thankful for? God tells us to be thankful and say so (Psalm 100:4 AMPC).

It is easy to find fault with your place of employment, but why not thank God and your employer for giving you a job instead? It is also easy to find fault with the people in our lives, and most of us are quite willing to voice our feelings. But I have found that my joy increases when I purpose to find the things I appreciate and love about the people in my life and consider the blessings I would miss if those people were not part of my life.

Do you desire greater joy? If so, I encourage you to increase your gratitude, and it will turn into joy.

Prayer of the Day: Father, I have so much to be thankful for. Help me remember to be grateful and say so to You every single day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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