Living Life Unedited

Home » Spiritual Growth » Three Ways Thankfulness Improves Perspective
Three Ways Thankfulness Improves Perspective

A mindset of thankfulness develops a better perspective.

Do you need to improve your perspective of your situation? Have you become disillusioned with your relationships or disappointed in your job? Discouragement, disillusionment, and disappointment rob us of our joy and darken our outlook.

Consider improving your perspective through three benefits of thankfulness.

  • Thankfulness helps me resist a sense of entitlement.

It’s easy to think “I’ve done my part, it’s time to let someone else do it.” Or, “I deserve better than this.” What makes us think we deserve better? Instead of asking “Why me?” ask “Why not me?”

When I received my first tongue cancer diagnosis 15 years ago, disbelief stunned me. How could that happen to me when I didn’t fit a profile for that type of cancer? When I took my questions to the Lord, He gave me peace through trusting His ways.

Is 55:9 thankful perspective

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.  Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV

Over the years I’ve had doctor appointments at least every 6 months. Six tongue biopsies that brought concern. Of those, two were cancerous. This summer I am finally released from the doctor, for which I am thankful! I no longer have the regular checkups unless I notice a problem.

My tongue will proclaim your righteousness, your praises all day long. Psalm 35:28 NIV

  • Thankfulness helps deliver me from self-sufficiency, from thinking I can handle life on my own independent from God.

I can consider all I’ve accomplished, but in truth, it is the work of God in my life. When I’m grateful for the blessings in my life, I realize all that God has given me. When I manage problems on my own, I am likely to struggle more. I am reminded of Jesus’ words, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 NIV).

thankfulness perspective

King David reflected on his life with an accurate perception. He realized the source of the blessings and gave thanks.

And now, our God, we give thanks to you and praise your glorious name.

“But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to make this freewill offering? For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you.” 1 Chronicles 29:13-14 NIV

  • Thankfulness leads me to a greater awareness of the goodness of God.

I am less likely to grumble about slow traffic or long lines at checkout when I change my focus to look for reasons for thankfulness. Slow traffic? Yes, but I’m grateful to have transportation. Long lines? At least I can buy necessary items even if I have to wait. God’s goodness shows up in the little things as we have to keep our eyes open to see the blessings.

thankfulness

A daily attitude of thankfulness brings an improved perspective. The Bible teaches us about thanksgiving as a way of life. Gratitude helps us navigate the problems as we remember the everyday blessings from God.

Have you seen how thankfulness improves your perspective?

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Oh, this is so true. For the little everyday things, as well as the big stuff. It was a heartbreaking summer (as you know), but so many things I’m thankful for about it.

  3. Hi Nancy, I am thankful to be past the mouth surgery Thursday to save my two lower front teeth ( which was supposed to happen the day after I broke my hip in May). I am thankful to be walking though with a cane. (Dr Griffey says my bones are strong so if I ever have another mishap, it won’t be that hip). The hip has never been a problem, but my leg still has some pain at twelve weeks…so it’s early yet and I’m not giving up hope. I’m praising God for the resiliency He built into us to recover. I have never spent so much “money” on myself before, nor has Dick on both of us but God has provided…we remain debt free and continue to share with various ministries thanks to Dick’s ability to handle things. Physically, we both have struggled a bit but are persevering; never-the-less we surely will be listening for Christ’s call to join Him. Who knows but what we’ll all be together with Him…anytime. Hugs, Sonnie