Series: It's All Good
Message: The Art of Gratitude 
Preacher: Dena King
Daily Walk: Dena King

Refresh: Open with prayer. Read or listen to Psalm 109:21–29.

Read: Luke 17:11–19 (ESV). As you read the English Standard Version, note 1–3 insights or questions. 

Reflect: My husband, Elia, has often told me about how it makes such a difference to play with musicians who have practiced their music. He has noted how it’s always more fun to play with those who really know what they are playing. Once a musician has practiced the piece over and over, they move from playing notes on a page to truly playing the music. It is then that it looks like it just comes naturally. The same is true with gratitude. It does not just appear because things are going well. We must practice and practice in all circumstances. 

This week, say “thank you” more often. Thank your friends for ways they make your life better. Thank those who provide services to you, teach your children, and do the things you can’t do. Thank God for the many ways He has provided for you. Do this over and over and over again until it comes naturally. 

Here are 3 simple ways to practice gratitude:
Journaling: Write down 3–5 things you are grateful for each day. Focus on these things throughout the day.
Decorate a Jar or Box: Place the container on your desk and each day write down something you are thankful for and place it inside. Take one out whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Gratitude Rock: Keep a rock, or any small item, in your pocket. Each time you touch it, think about something for which you are grateful.

Recalibrate: ​​​How would our lives be different if we practiced gratitude the same way we do other spiritual practices such as prayer and Bible study? Think of others you know who seem “naturally” grateful. Do they have more to be thankful for or are they simply well practiced at gratitude? What things are you practicing each day?

Respond: Pray for an opportunity to express gratitude when it would be easier to complain.

Research: Visit ted.com and search for Eduardo Briceño’s talk titled, “How to Get Better at the Things You Care About.”