Cultivating a Rhythm of Gratitude
In 1 Corinthians 1:4-9, the Apostle Paul teaches us a powerful lesson in gratitude. This is especially evident in verse 4, where he says: “I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus.”
Paul’s words remind us that gratitude is not just a passing thought, but a continual practice. He didn’t thank God only for big events or specific blessings; he thanked God always for the grace given to the believers. In the midst of challenges, hardships, or uncertainty, Paul had cultivated a habit of gratitude. This is a crucial attitude for us to embrace if we are to survive the days ahead.
Just like Paul, we are called to continually express gratitude for the grace we have received—not only for the material blessings we enjoy but for the life, salvation, and transformation we experience through Jesus. Gratitude is a powerful spiritual practice that shifts our focus from what we lack to what we’ve already been given in Christ.
As we fast, let’s follow Paul’s example and choose gratitude each day. Fasting, while a time of seeking God and consecrating ourselves, is also a time to pause and remember the countless ways God has been faithful to us and those we love. We may not always see it in the moment, but there’s always something to thank God for—His sustaining grace, His love, and the fact that He has called us into fellowship with His Son.
In the following verses (1 Corinthians 1:5-9), Paul reminds us that God’s grace enriches us in every way, equips us with spiritual gifts, and keeps us firm until the end. It’s important to recognise that grace is the foundation of all these blessings. The more we cultivate a heart of gratitude for God’s grace, the more we are open to experiencing His ongoing work in our lives. Gratitude opens the door for God to continue enriching us with wisdom, speech, knowledge, and strength.
Paul’s thanks to God was not just a personal expression, but an acknowledgment of God’s work in the lives of others. Similarly, as we fast, let us thank God not only for what He’s done in our own lives but for the ways He’s working in the lives of others—our church family, our community, and the world around us.
How can we respond?
Cultivate Daily Gratitude: Begin each day by thanking God for His grace. Reflect on His blessings, both big and small. Perhaps you could write down at least three things you are grateful for each morning. Let gratitude fill your heart before you begin the day.
Thank God Always, Not Just in Good Times: Like Paul, make it a habit to thank God in all circumstances. Even when you feel weak or discouraged, remember that God’s grace is sufficient, and His faithfulness endures.
Thank God for Others: In addition to focusing on your own blessings, take time each day to thank God for others in your life. Whether it's a family member, a friend, or a fellow believer, lift them up in gratitude for the ways God is at work in their lives.
Seek to Be Enriched: As you fast, ask God to enrich your heart with deeper wisdom, love, and knowledge of His Word. Focus on how His grace is strengthening you, and be open to the spiritual gifts He may be developing in you during this season.
As we journey through this 21-days of prayer and fasting, let’s embrace Paul’s example of always thanking God for His grace. May we cultivate hearts of gratitude, recognising that God’s grace is the foundation of everything we have. In doing so, we align ourselves with His purposes and are kept firm by His unchanging faithfulness.
- Bethany Milne