Thanksgiving: How to Develop a Gratitude Mindset
Are you aware that one of the most inexpensive and easy ways to improve your emotional, physical, and mental health is to be thankful is to develop a Gratitude Mindset?
It may seem old-fashioned, but it’s true. G.K. Chesterton, a famous English writer, said, “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.”
I agree that sometimes the simplest truths are the most profound (and let’s face it, way cheaper than therapy or kale smoothies).
As a mental health professional who loves Jesus (and coffee), I get excited when scientific findings align with Scripture’s teachings. Positive Psychology research now shows that folks who keep gratitude journals and intentionally focus on their blessings aren’t just happier and they’re also more resilient. Why. The have developed a gratitude mindset.
When we make space for thankfulness in our lives, we gently nudge out envy, resentment, worry (and all those other party crashers), replacing them with joy and strength.
Why developing a Gratitude Mindset Matters for Believers
God asks us to be thankful.
The number one reason for practicing gratitude isn’t just about feeling better (though you will). God Himself calls us into Thanksgiving: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever…” (Psalm 100:4-5 NLT). If you’re looking for permission to celebrate, even in hard times, God already gave it.
A gratitude mindset keeps our eyes on God
When we ask ourselves daily, “What am I thankful for?” or “Who do I owe thanks to?” our perspective shifts from what’s missing in life to Who is present in every moment—God Himself! The more intentional we are about giving thanks, the more clearly we see His hand at work.
Developing a Gratitude mindset isn’t just something nice Christians do
It’s a spiritual discipline that builds faith muscles stronger than any gym membership ever could! Thankfulness helps us trust God not only during mountaintop moments but also when life feels like trudging through quicksand in church shoes.
How Do You Grow a Gratitude Mindset?
Let’s get practical here:
Jot Down Your Joys
Even if your handwriting looks like ancient hieroglyphics after years of typing (guilty as charged), putting pen to paper can calm your mind and lift your spirit.
- Find a peaceful spot—maybe your favorite armchair or even your car before heading inside.
- Think about one good thing happening right now in your life or family.
- List three things bringing you joy today—even if they’re small.
- Write down three things you’re looking forward to—even if it’s simply tomorrow’s cup of coffee or seeing someone smile at church.
Friend, cultivating gratitude doesn’t require perfection; it requires intention—a simple willingness each day to pause and say thank You—to God first and then outwardly toward others. And remember: no matter what season you find yourself in this Thanksgiving—you always have access to the most incredible gift imaginable: Christ Himself walking beside you.
So grab that journal…and maybe an extra slice of pumpkin pie with a little bit of whipped cream!
Make Mealtimes More Thankful
Let’s be honest—saying grace can sometimes slip into the ‘routine’ category, just another quick moment before we dive into that steaming casserole. But what if we paused long enough to see it differently? Scripture shows us that giving thanks before a meal isn’t filler; it’s a spiritual act. Jesus paused to give thanks before feeding the crowds, and Paul did the same—reminding us that gratitude at mealtimes is a way to honor God’s provision and presence in our daily lives.
Fast forward to today. We still bow our heads over chicken pot pie, takeout boxes, or Tuesday leftovers. But it’s not just tradition we’re keeping alive, it’s a practice of gratitude. When we pray before we eat, we’re acknowledging the One who provides every bite (and maybe even spared us from burning the meal).
Grace doesn’t demand perfect wording or polished prayers. It’s simply a moment to remember Who fills our plates and sustains our days. In a world where meals are rushed, schedules are packed, and gratitude can feel like an afterthought, this brief pause to give thanks can steady our hearts and refocus our spirits.
So the next time you sit down—whether surrounded by family or enjoying a quiet bowl of soup on your own, remember grace is more than a habit. It’s an invitation to slow down, connect with God, and savor His goodness…before your mashed potatoes get cold.
G.K. Chesterton once said, “You say grace before meals. All right. But I say grace before the concert and the opera, and grace before I open a book, and grace before sketching, painting…” You get the idea! Why not let “thanks” become your go-to habit—not just at dinner, but everywhere? Imagine saying a quick prayer of thanks before tackling your inbox or folding laundry (yes, even that!). It’s like seasoning every part of your day with gratitude, and trust me, it helps everything taste better.
Pause and Savor
Here’s something practical: pick one tiny moment each day, the first sip of coffee, the warmth of sunlight on your face, and linger there for 20 seconds. That pause isn’t wasted time; it helps fight off negative thoughts and can reduce anxiety (science agrees!). Some folks keep a “savor jar” they jot down happy moments on scraps of paper and read them together on Sundays. How about an “awe walk”? Take 10-15 minutes outside—notice the sky or trees—and then share one awe-inspiring moment at dinner tonight.
Before bed tonight, think of three good things that happened today and why they happened, even if one is “I didn’t burn dinner.” This simple habit can help you sleep better and wake up more positive tomorrow.
Limit Your Screen Time
Now for a challenge—let’s talk screens! Try making one meal ‘Phone Free.’ Don’t panic—I’m not asking for all-or-nothing here; start with one meal where everyone puts their phones away (I have to remind myself too). When we limit our screen time at meals, we’re more present—with God, with our loved ones, even with ourselves.
The truth is: having a gratitude mindset is free but powerful medicine for our souls. Without it? We risk becoming self-centered little islands—believing we’re responsible for everything in our lives instead of recognizing God’s fingerprints everywhere we look.
May the Lord richly bless you as you continue to build a Gratitude Mindset. Check out my podcast on this topic!
Helpful Links
Blog Articles
From Fixed to Flexible: Adopting a Growth Mindset for Spiritual Growth
Transform Your Thoughts, Transform Your Life
Links to John’s Podcast
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