Pause: A Month of Gratitude in Five Minutes a DaySample

Proclaim

“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.” (Phil. 4:8-9)

Prompt

My hope sprang to life in April of 2011 when I committed to sobriety. During the early days, I was taught to build my new life on gratitude. We would practice this each Friday in group therapy sessions by going around the room and listing what we were grateful for.

Each Friday as we did this, the darkness that had engulfed me for years began to fall away. God’s hopeful plans for me became more and more of a reality as gratitude began to build in my spirit.

As I grew confident, my addiction grew weaker and weaker, and I began to see a future worth fighting for. One of the greatest gifts of my sobriety has been discovering my purpose in life.

I realized my life MATTERS. And you know what? Yours does too!

If you don’t believe me, try listening to today’s song and not getting fired up for the purpose God has for YOUR life.

Prod

What God-authored purpose are you pursuing? Write it out and keep it in front of you!

Praise

Listen to “The Anthem” by Jesus Culture

Pray

Jesus, WAKE ME UP! Give my calling fuel. Ignite me with your hope! I don’t want to wander through this life—I want to live with a purpose! Help me to embody your plans and purpose throughout my day today… and for the rest of my life. Amen.