As we continue through the month of April, we are nearing the half way point. Which means we are ready to tack the letter “j” today. In the article[i] I’ve been following for this challenge, Ms. Marquez suggests that one way to boost your attitude or your happiness level is to journal.

According to this article, research has shown that by writing down what you’re grateful for each day helps to make you more optimistic.

It makes sense doesn’t it? When we are more focused on what we are thankful for we are less likely to dwell on the things of life we aren’t so thankful for. It’s no wonder books like One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp are so popular. We want to see the best in life. We want to be thankful for what God has given. We want to dwell on the good.

In the book mentioned above, Ms. Voskamp suggests that the word for thanksgiving holds a three-fold meaning. The Greek word eucharisteo means to give thanks. Within this word, the word charis is present and it means grace. Also within the word is chara which means joy. Her conclusion is that this word is a key to abundant living. Thanksgiving. Grace. Joy.

So just think of the things you could journal each day that you are thankful for. You can write these notes on anything. 3 x 5 cards. A napkin. A journal. Or even text it to yourself. One of my friends writes the things she’s thankful for on slips of paper and puts them in a jar. On New Year’s Eve she reads through the slips. What a beautiful way to start a New Year…by being thankful for all you’ve been given, seen or experienced over a year’s time.

It’s no wonder this exercise will boost your happiness and attitude.

I recall Paul’s words from Philippians. He knew that we would be discouraged. He knew that we would need an attitude adjustment. So in his wisdom, Paul offered these words through God’s Holy Spirit.

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4 – NIV)

“Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8 – NIV)

What are you thankful for today? Are you willing to take the challenge of journaling what you’re thankful for? It may seem like a little thing, but if your spirit is downcast, this may be the best medicine for your soul. I pray that you will find grace, thanksgiving and joy through Jesus Christ and that you will find abundant life through Him.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

[i] “More Bliss, Less Stress: A to Z Happiness Boosters to Try Today,” Jennifer Rainey Marquez, Good Housekeeping, Vol. 260, No. 4, page 114.