I’ve been doing some reflecting lately—on our lives, our happiness, and how we pursue joy in the world we live in. Amen.

For many, happiness is tied to what they have—their possessions, their wealth, the size of their home, or the kind of car or truck they drive. For others, it’s about accomplishments and achievements. These things bring a sense of happiness, for a time. But they are often just temporary joys. Amen.

I say this from experience. I’ve had the nicest things—and I’ve also had very little. I’ve driven luxury vehicles and had money pass through my hands. Amen. And yes, in those moments, there was a feeling of joy, of progress, of success. But again, those feelings are fleeting. Praise the Lord.

I think of King Solomon. He had it all—wisdom, wealth, power—and even he said it was all vanity (Ecclesiastes 1:1–18). What I’m learning, and still learning every day, is that life is truly about being grateful. Amen.

It’s about having the right attitude in your heart—toward your life, toward what you have, toward everything. It’s not about how much, but how deeply you are thankful for what is. And from that place of being grateful comes a life of gratitude. Amen.

Gratitude, at its core, is an extension of thankfulness. It’s the condition of the heart that says, “Thank You, Lord,” not just for the good things, but for all things. As the Bible says, “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Amen.

Living a life of gratitude brings countless benefits. Research even supports what Scripture has long taught. Gratitude helps release toxic emotions—like envy, jealousy, frustration, resentment, and regret. Amen.

Grateful people experience fewer aches and pains. They tend to be happier and healthier. Gratitude increases empathy and reduces aggression. It helps us sleep better and improves our self-esteem. It also reduces the need to compare ourselves with others and allows us to genuinely celebrate their successes.

Gratitude reduces stress and strengthens our minds. It plays a major role in overcoming trauma. It gives us a resilient spirit. Amen.

So today, I want us all to pause—and truly be grateful for our lives. Let the Lord know how thankful you are. And if you’re struggling in this area, then let the Lord know that too. Amen.

It changes us when our hearts and minds are in the right place—filled with good, wholesome thoughts, thankfulness, and peace. Whether we’re in a season of plenty or a season of lack, let’s hold on to the Lord. He will carry us through it all. For He is with us. Amen.

God cares about our hearts, our minds, and our inner spirit—not so much about the external things. Yes, He wants us to enjoy good things in life, but those are just that—things. They are not our identity.

You see, God wants us to be whole and complete in Him. And that only happens when we are made right with God—and with ourselves. Amen.

Because the only one who knows you better than you do—is the Lord. We may be able to fool others, but God sees the heart. Those hidden, broken places inside—those are what need to be healed and restored. Amen.

So, start small. Each day, write down a few things you’re grateful for. Let it help renew your mind and cleanse your heart. Let those rivers of living water begin to flow freely—no clogs, no dryness, no emptiness. Just a heart overflowing with gratitude, gratefulness, and thanksgiving. Amen!”

“For it is in His name, Jesus’ name, that I do ask and pray..Amen and Amen..Be blessed today my dear sweet friends and remember wherever you go and whatever you do, Be a light for our Father, Much love to you all, Mandi ❤️