Spiritual Self-Care in Times of Trauma, Stress, and Loss نموونە

Thank the Lord for the Blessings You Do Have

Funny how our minds tend to gravitate toward the negative, especially if it’s something we feel compelled to fix. We might be experiencing a 97% blessing rate (humanly speaking), but all we see is the 3% we don’t have. 

Gratefulness is a choice. And although there are some people who actually seem to thrive on doom and gloom, I think most of us find freedom and joy in giving thanks. 

However, it doesn’t come naturally. Even David had to remind his soul to “bless the Lord,” and not to forget all His benefits.

Gratefulness is the reward of choosing to give thanks… regardless of how challenging our circumstances.

What helps me is to focus on the three realms of blessings: past, present and future. Whether you’re on a walk, stuck in traffic, or chopping vegetables, anytime is a good time to count your blessings.

Start with something God has already done. Thank Him!

Then take note of all the good things you see, taste, smell, hear, and feel right now. Thank Him!

Finally, reflect on the promises He’s given of future blessings. Thank Him!

And the good news is that we will never ever run out of things for which to be grateful. 

For more detailed Self-Care Checklists for Survival in times of loss, divorce, grief, or trauma, see Welby O'Brien's books "Formerly A Wife" (divorce), "Goodbye For Now" (grief), and "Love Our Vets: Restoring Hope for Families of Veterans with PTSD" (trauma).    www.welbyo.com