Devotion
When life feels unsatisfying, we often believe the answer is “more” - more money, more achievement, more affirmation. But Scripture and experience both show us that joy doesn’t come from accumulation. In fact, joy doesn't produce gratitude… gratitude produces joy.
When we pause to see God’s goodness in what we already have, our hearts start to shift. Gratitude turns ordinary moments into reminders of God’s faithfulness. And as we practice gratitude with our words and actions, joy begins to take root in every part of life.
Pastor’s recent message reminded us that gratitude isn’t just a feeling, it’s a practice that grows.
There’s a progression in how we learn to be grateful. There’s Level 1 gratitude where we thank God for what He gives. But there’s a deeper Level 2 gratitude that thanks Him even when the struggle hasn’t lifted yet. One celebrates His provision… the other celebrates His presence.
As we step into this week’s prayer guide, we’re going to practice both.
When we pause to see God’s goodness in what we already have, our hearts start to shift. Gratitude turns ordinary moments into reminders of God’s faithfulness. And as we practice gratitude with our words and actions, joy begins to take root in every part of life.
Pastor’s recent message reminded us that gratitude isn’t just a feeling, it’s a practice that grows.
There’s a progression in how we learn to be grateful. There’s Level 1 gratitude where we thank God for what He gives. But there’s a deeper Level 2 gratitude that thanks Him even when the struggle hasn’t lifted yet. One celebrates His provision… the other celebrates His presence.
As we step into this week’s prayer guide, we’re going to practice both.
Prayer Guide
Remembering the Giver
“When you have eaten your fill… be careful not to forget the Lord.”
Deuteronomy 8:10–11, NLT
Lord, guard my heart from forgetting You in times of blessing.
Keep me from relying on myself instead of acknowledging You.
Help me remember Your goodness in seasons of abundance.
Help me to stay humble and mindful that every blessing comes from You.
Help me stay deeply aware of my dependence on You.
Gratitude Produces Joy
“Joy doesn’t make us grateful… gratitude makes us joyful.”
Jesus, teach me to recognize and appreciate Your blessings.
Help me resist the desire for “more” as the answer to dissatisfaction.
Develop in me a grateful heart that finds joy in what You’ve provided.
Help gratitude reshape my perspective and renew my spirit.
Help joy grow in me as I give thanks daily.
Practicing Gratitude
“Let the redeemed of the Lord say so…”
Psalm 107:2, NLT
Jesus, let thanksgiving be expressed through my words and actions today.
Help me practice gratitude intentionally and consistently.
Help me worship with a thankful and sincere heart.
Teach me to celebrate Your goodness with a sincere heart.
Level 1: Thankful FOR…
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good…”
Psalm 118:1, NLT
Thank You for Your:
(Pray specifically for the blessings God has given.)
Level 2: Thankful EVEN THOUGH…
“You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies.”
Psalm 23:5, NLT
Thank You even though:
Thank You for Your unfailing presence and peace.
(Pray specifically for gratitude in a difficult circumstance.)
“When you have eaten your fill… be careful not to forget the Lord.”
Deuteronomy 8:10–11, NLT
Lord, guard my heart from forgetting You in times of blessing.
Keep me from relying on myself instead of acknowledging You.
Help me remember Your goodness in seasons of abundance.
Help me to stay humble and mindful that every blessing comes from You.
Help me stay deeply aware of my dependence on You.
Gratitude Produces Joy
“Joy doesn’t make us grateful… gratitude makes us joyful.”
Jesus, teach me to recognize and appreciate Your blessings.
Help me resist the desire for “more” as the answer to dissatisfaction.
Develop in me a grateful heart that finds joy in what You’ve provided.
Help gratitude reshape my perspective and renew my spirit.
Help joy grow in me as I give thanks daily.
Practicing Gratitude
“Let the redeemed of the Lord say so…”
Psalm 107:2, NLT
Jesus, let thanksgiving be expressed through my words and actions today.
Help me practice gratitude intentionally and consistently.
Help me worship with a thankful and sincere heart.
Teach me to celebrate Your goodness with a sincere heart.
Level 1: Thankful FOR…
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good…”
Psalm 118:1, NLT
Thank You for Your:
- Provision.
- Protection.
- Mercy.
- Faithfulness.
- Blessings seen and unseen.
(Pray specifically for the blessings God has given.)
Level 2: Thankful EVEN THOUGH…
“You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies.”
Psalm 23:5, NLT
Thank You even though:
- Some prayers are still unanswered.
- Some battles are ongoing.
- Some situations are unresolved.
- Some difficulties remain.
Thank You for Your unfailing presence and peace.
(Pray specifically for gratitude in a difficult circumstance.)