Thanksgiving has come and gone. For many, this season inspires gratitude shared over dinner tables or on social media. While these moments are meaningful, gratitude is far more than a seasonal exercise. It is a daily practice that fosters spiritual growth, emotional resilience, and physical well-being. Scripture calls us to give thanks in all circumstances: “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NLT). For those of us in recovery, gratitude is a lifeline—a practice that renews hope and keeps us centered on today’s blessings.

As someone in long-term recovery from drug addiction, I have experienced the healing power of gratitude. Early in my recovery, I struggled with shame, regret, and anxiety. I was encouraged to make gratitude lists, writing down things I could be thankful for, no matter how small. At first, it felt forced, but as I committed, something shifted. I began to notice blessings like support from others and moments of peace. Gratitude became a habit, reshaping my perspective and helping me stay present. Today, gratitude lists remain a cornerstone of my recovery walk, reminding me that there is something to be thankful for even in challenges.

Scripture is rich with encouragement to cultivate gratitude. “Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name” (Psalm 100:4, NLT). Gratitude deepens our relationship with God. Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT) reminds us: “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.” Gratitude can be a remedy for anxiety, opening the door to God’s peace.

Scientific research echoes what Scripture teaches. Gratitude improves resilience, reduces stress, and enhances physical health. Neuroscience studies show that gratitude activates brain areas associated with reward, releasing dopamine and serotonin to lift our mood. Gratitude has also been linked to better sleep, lower stress hormones, and stronger relationships—critical for recovery and well-being. Insert mind-blown emoji here! Did you know this???

Life’s challenges can make gratitude feel impossible. In these moments, it’s important to start small. Focus on basics: clean water, food, or the chance to start over. Reframe difficulties as opportunities for growth. Gratitude is a muscle that strengthens with practice, even when it feels unnatural.

Practicing gratitude beyond Thanksgiving helps us stay grounded. Here are ways to make gratitude a habit:

1. Gratitude Journal: Write 1-3 things you’re thankful for daily. Start and end your day this way!
2. Serve Others: Volunteering fosters gratitude for your journey.
3. Reframe Challenges: Look for lessons or hope within struggles.

Gratitude isn’t just a seasonal trend; it’s a way of life. It teaches us to trust God, embrace hope, and find joy. “And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20, NLT). Whether walking through recovery, facing challenges, or celebrating victories, gratitude reminds us that God is with us and His blessings are countless.

Thanksgiving may be over, but the practice of gratitude is never out of season. For me, gratitude lists are not just about staying sober—they are about living intentionally, one day at a time. As we move beyond the holiday season, let’s commit to gratitude as a daily practice, drawing closer to God and experiencing the peace only He can provide.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever” (Psalm 136:1, NLT).