Does A Person Good

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Proverbs 17:22  "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."

Psalm 28:7  "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him."

Think

Gratitude is more than a positive attitude; it’s a powerful, God-given practice that renews our mind, body, and spirit. Studies reveal that practicing gratitude can significantly improve mental health by lowering stress and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. When we focus on thankfulness, our brain releases dopamine and serotonin, the “feel-good” chemicals that naturally boost mood and help alleviate stress. Charles Spurgeon noted that “A joyful heart is the normal state of a healthy Christian.” Gratitude aligns us with this joy, centering our hearts on God’s faithfulness and uplifting our spirits.

Emotionally, gratitude builds resilience, helping us handle life’s challenges with greater strength and adaptability. Studies show that grateful people experience less envy, frustration, and regret, making them better equipped to manage negative emotions. This outlook reduces emotional burnout, allowing us to approach life with peace and confidence. Proverbs 17:22 reminds us that “a cheerful heart is good medicine,” and gratitude truly promotes healing within us, creating a sense of balance and contentment even through tough seasons.

Gratitude also impacts our physical health in powerful ways. Research indicates that grateful people often have lower blood pressure, healthier heart rates, and even stronger immune systems. Reflecting on gratitude before bed has been linked to improved sleep quality, which boosts our mental clarity, emotional stability, and physical well-being. Thankfulness is a gift that touches every part of our lives, grounding us in God’s love and bringing strength to face each day with peace and joy.

Gratitude, then, is more than just an attitude—it’s "the soul’s balm," as Spurgeon said, a way to draw near to God’s peace and find healing in his presence. Through thankfulness, we receive his strength, joy, and wholeness, allowing us to face each day renewed and anchored in Jesus.

Apply

Today, thank God for his character, his nature, his unwavering steadiness and his loving kindness. Praise him and thank him for what he has done.

Pray

Lord, thank you for all the blessings you’ve given me, big and small. Help me to see your goodness in my life each day and to carry a grateful heart. Let thankfulness draw me closer to you and fill me with your peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.