Date: November 25, 2024

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, power, and dominion now and forever, and to the Holy Ghost, who continues to dwell within us, guiding our steps. This month’s theme is thankfulness, and this week’s message is “The Connection Between Gratitude and Emotional Health.”

Gratitude serves as a bridge that connects our spiritual lives to our emotional well-being. Jesus’ teachings emphasize the importance of thankfulness, illustrating that a grateful heart can transform our perspective on life’s challenges. As it says in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly, therefore, will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” In a world filled with anxiety and uncertainty, embracing gratitude honors God and enriches our emotional well-being. By recognizing the blessings in our lives, we transform our focus from what we lack to the abundance that envelops us, cultivating a deeper sense of peace and joy.

The act of being thankful can significantly impact our mental state. Psalm 23:3 states, “He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” Research consistently shows that individuals who practice gratitude regularly experience lower levels of depression and anxiety. This aligns perfectly with Jesus’ teachings, where thankfulness is not merely an act but a way of life. Recognizing even the smallest blessings invites a healing presence into our hearts. Psalm 51:10 says, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” 

In closing, gratitude is a powerful tool for emotional restoration. Psalms This practice inspires us to recognize Jesus in our daily lives, reminding us that He is with us through both our joys and trials. Psalm 34:19 reminds us, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.” When our spirits feel heavy, and our hearts are burdened, thankfulness can be a balm for our souls. It allows us to recognize the hope that exists even amid suffering. As stated in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Jesus demonstrated gratitude in the face of adversity, teaching us that acknowledging our blessings can lead to spiritual and emotional healing. This perspective helps us articulate our struggles while simultaneously reminding us of God’s unwavering presence and love.

Remember, “with God, all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).

In His Service,

Bishop Dr. Calvin Worthem        

General Chief Overseer/Senior Bishop