Read

Philippians 4:4-9

On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your mental health last year?

What practical steps could you take this year to raise that number by a few points? What if this is the year you finally started talking to your friends and loved ones about your struggle? What if this was the year you started going to counseling? 

There are many ways to do that, and everyone's story is different, but one step we can all take is gratitude. One of the most foundational ways to learn to live alive and free is to begin thanking God for everything you do have instead of worrying about everything you don't have. In the passage you just read, Paul said it like this: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).   

Mental health struggles are not easy to overcome; they often take time (and at times professional help) to deal with. However, gratitude is a great place to start. It’s a good practice when it comes to shifting your mindset. What if this was the year you traded worry for gratitude? Practice today by writing down five things you are thankful for.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Prayer

Father, I have so many things to be grateful for. Thank you for all the ways you bless me. Today, when I start to worry about the things I don't have, I pray that you will remind me about the things I do have. In Jesus' name, Amen.