The Impact of Gratitude

Having gratitude changes your brain and your life.

When you experience gratitude, your brain releases positive hormones to the emotional side of your brain that informs you what you’re feeling. These positive hormones have been shown to improve your mood and make you feel happier. (Madhuleena, 2019). The Bible even states that this is how the brain works.

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” -Philippians 4:4-7

Whether you’ve heard the verses above before or this is your first time reading them, there is valuable insight you can gain from these words. “Rejoice” and “thanksgiving” are used multiple times, and the passage clearly states that you will have peace if you offer up every situation and feeling to God. The chapter goes on to say:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, 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. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” -Philippians 4:8-9

In both sections, peace is significantly highlighted; noting that by focusing on the positive aspects of life and offering the rest up to God, you will have peace. The impact of gratitude is multi-fold. Not only is this a command, but it ultimately benefits your personal life in addition to your spiritual life.

As you look at your life, what areas might you be overlooking that you can praise God for? Is there room for growth in gratitude this holiday season? Bring your attitude and heart to The Lord; He will meet you where you’re at and call you even higher.

Sources

Madhuleena Roy Chowdhury, B. (2024, September 19). The neuroscience of gratitude and effects on the brain. PositivePsychology.com. https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude/