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Growing in Gratitude

February 01, 2023
By Joshua Stines, Director of Spiritual Formation

After a strong foundation has been created for a plant, the plant is set up to grow and thrive. But if you are like me and do not have a “green thumb,” you may sometimes wonder, How do I know if my plants are growing well?

One way we can tell whether a plant is growing well is if the plant can ward off insect activity. A plant draws nutrients from the soil to make it strong and give it the ability to defend against invasions from hungry little critters. Another way we can tell that a plant is growing well is if it can withstand drought. Healthy soil can hold more water than dry or dead dirt, allowing it to remain hydrated even on hot days.

When it comes to our life in Christ, Colossians 2:6–7 gives us some insight into how we know we are growing. Paul says that when we root our life in Jesus and He becomes the foundation, our life will be one that is “overflowing with gratitude” (NASB). How is that? And what difference does that make?  

As we grow, we become increasingly aware that what Christ did for us was something we did not deserve and were not capable of earning for ourselves. On the cross, Christ saved us from our sin. The more we become aware of that, the more thankful we become.

The more thankful we become, the more our lives and the lives of people around us are positively impacted. Studies show that as we express gratitude, we are less susceptible to things like high blood pressure, negative thinking, stress, and depression. Just as nutrients can help a plant ward off insects and withstand drought, gratitude can help us ward off the plans of the enemy and stay rooted throughout the droughts of life.  

During the month of February, we will be studying how to GROW IN GRATITUDE. Our students will learn that gratitude begins with salvation. They will hear about people like Mary, Jesus’ mother, who expressed her gratitude through song and worship because of the gift that God had given her. And they will learn that gratitude happens not only when we stop and appreciate what we have but also when we share what we have with others.

So, as you take time to pray for us this month, join us in taking time to thank God for family and friends. Don’t forget to thank God for His provisions in your life—your job, your house, your health, the food you eat and drink. Let’s not miss this opportunity to be grateful. After all, you never know what kind of difference it might make in your life as well as in the lives of those around you.