Break free of the shackles of conventional culture that mainly promote self-serving interests.

[From Let Gratitude Show You the Way: A 21-Day Devotional Guide, Herald House, 2012]

Dr. Robert Emmons from the University of California at Davis has found that gratitude is not only something that can be cultivated, but it can even improve our health and social relationships. After several years of researching the multiple impacts and effects of gratitude, he concluded that “being grateful unshackles us from toxic emotions, as it literally changes the neurology at play in our brains, and it opens the door for us to be more empathetic and forgiving towards others.”

Gratitude unshackles us from toxic emotions such as envy, greed, jealousy, and guilt. This is simply because we cannot focus on them and be grateful at the same time.

Consider your life today. What aspects might be “toxic” for you mentally, physically, emotionally, or spiritually? In what ways can gratitude become a helpful or healing action?

What are you grateful for today?

Prayer Phrase

“For everything created by God is good” (1 Timothy 4:4).

Spiritual Practice

Joy of Gratitude

Stand, if possible, with arms outstretched. Imagine God filling your arms with all that you have: family, friends, and possessions. Hold out your arms until they feel tired. Now, bring your arms across your body. Place your hand over your heart and thank God for the abundance that fills your life. Sit for a time aware of that abundance. Then ask God to help you open your heart in gratitude and share freely with others.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.