Fuel Up Your Soul with Bear Grylls Sample

DAY 5: BE THANKFUL

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

THIS VERSE IS INTERESTING and challenging because it isn’t what we first think of when the worst happens! Our default all too often can be to fall down and give up when things go badly wrong. But God has a better, smarter way. He says for us to be grateful in all circumstances. Instead of blaming and wailing, give thanks for all the good in your life. That’s radical living. 

At its most basic, that good is the truth that we are loved by God and given a future with Him for eternity. That in itself is crazy good news. 

When it comes to living life on earth with power and purpose, it is scientifically proven that gratitude changes our state for the better. So let’s make this a daily attitude and way to live: always in gratitude for our blessings, whether it be food, health, fortune, relationships, fun, family, or simply His promises for our futures.

Paul knew all about this too:

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)

In other words, look for the positive and choose to be grateful.

He was right. When we look around us and focus on all that is good, it helps us see God in so many of the little things that we often overlook, whether it be the leap of a dog in delight at seeing us, or the smile and kindness of someone serving us a coffee. Christ is in it all. When we live like this, it is as though our eyes are being opened. And it starts with gratitude.