If you want to feel closer to God, thank Him for these 8 things

fell closer to god

Want to feel closer to God?

Start by thanking Him.

This simple act of gratitude can bring about profound spiritual changes.

Recognizing and acknowledging the blessings bestowed upon us by our Creator is a step toward spiritual enlightenment. It fosters a deeper connection with God and helps us appreciate His divine presence in our lives.

In this article, we are going to explore these 8 significant aspects of our lives for which we should express our thankfulness to God.

1. Life itself

Life, in its purest form, is a gift from God.

It’s the canvas upon which we paint our experiences, relationships, and memories. From our first breath to our last, each moment is a testament to God’s grand design.

Thanking God for life itself is an expression of profound gratitude. It acknowledges the miracle of existence and the divine hand that shapes it.

Through this recognition, we begin to appreciate the preciousness of life and the profound love God has for us.

Every sunrise, every breath, every heartbeat – they are all reminders of this incredible gift we’ve been given. By expressing our gratitude for life, we open ourselves to God’s presence and foster a deeper connection with Him.

So, as you wake each day, thank God for the gift of life. Acknowledge His love and grace that allows you to experience another day.

This simple act of gratitude can bring about a spiritual shift, making you feel closer to God.

2. Health and wellness

Health is another blessing that often goes unnoticed until it’s compromised. It’s the foundation of our ability to enjoy life, to engage with the world around us, and to fulfill our God-given purpose.

Recognizing and thanking God for our health, even in its imperfect state, is a form of worship. It’s an acknowledgment of His mercy and compassion that allows us to experience life in all its complexity.

When we experience good health, it’s easy to take it for granted. Yet, each day that we wake up without pain or illness is a blessing.

It’s an opportunity to live life fully and to contribute positively to the world around us.

3. Challenges and struggles

Now, this might seem counterintuitive. Why should we thank God for our difficulties?

But here’s the thing. Our challenges and struggles often serve as catalysts for growth and transformation. They push us out of our comfort zones, compelling us to seek help, strength, and guidance from God.

Expressing gratitude for these hardships can be difficult, yet it’s a powerful act of faith. It demonstrates trust in God’s plan for us, acknowledging that He uses these trials for our good and His glory.

So, as you face your challenges, remember to thank God for them. Understand that they are part of your journey toward spiritual growth. This perspective shift can deepen your relationship with God and bring you closer to Him.

After all, it’s through the fire that we’re refined. It’s through the storm that we learn to seek shelter in Him.

4. Love and relationships

Have you ever considered the immense value of the relationships in your life?

Our relationships – family, friends, and partners – shape us in profound ways. They provide us with love, support, and companionship. They challenge us, teach us, and help us grow.

Thanking God for these relationships is a recognition of their divine purpose in our lives. It’s an acknowledgment of the love and growth they bring to us.

Consider the people who’ve touched your life. The family members who’ve nurtured you, the friends who’ve stood by you, and the partners who’ve loved you.

Each of these relationships is a gift from God.

Express your gratitude to God for these individuals. Recognize their role in your journey and thank Him for placing them in your life. This act of gratitude can deepen your connection with God and make you feel closer to Him.

**Insight**: According to a study published in the American Sociological Review, people with more substantial social connections are healthier and live longer.

5. Nature and beauty around us

The beauty of God’s creation is all around us. Every sunrise, every flower, every mountain range – they’re all expressions of His creativity and love.

Thanking God for the beauty around us is a way to connect with Him on a deeper level. It’s a recognition of His artistic hand in the world and an appreciation for His love of beauty.

Consider these simple, everyday sights:

  • The morning sun lighting up the sky
  • A field of flowers in full bloom
  • The gentle rustling of leaves in the wind

Each of these is a testament to God’s creativity and love. As you go about your day, take a moment to appreciate these sights.

Thank God for His beautiful creation and allow yourself to feel closer to Him through this act of gratitude.

6. Opportunities and doors opened

We’re often quick to thank God for the opportunities that come our way. But how often do we consider the doors He’s opened for us?

Every opportunity is a door opened by God. It’s a chance for growth, learning, and progress. Thanking God for these opportunities is a recognition of His guidance in our lives.

I’ve found that every job offer, every invitation, and every new project is a result of God’s plan for me. These opportunities have shaped my journey and led me to where I am today.

So, let’s take a moment to thank God for these opportunities. Let’s acknowledge His hand in our journey and express our gratitude for the doors He’s opened for us.

This act of gratitude can bring us closer to God and foster a deeper understanding of His guidance in our lives.

8. Failures

Failures aren’t typically something we’re thankful for. They can be painful, embarrassing, and disappointing. But, if we shift our perspective, we can see them as blessings in disguise.

Every failure provides us with a priceless opportunity to learn and grow. They help us discover our resilience and resourcefulness. They show us what doesn’t work and push us to find what does.

Expressing gratitude to God for our failures can bring us closer to Him, as it’s an acknowledgment of His wisdom. It shows that we trust His plan for us, even when things don’t go as we’d hoped.

So next time you stumble, instead of dwelling on the disappointment, thank God for the lesson and the growth that will come from it.

It’s a surprising path to feeling a deeper connection with Him.

8. The gift of faith

Faith, in its essence, is a gift. It’s a divine grace that allows us to believe, trust, and surrender to God’s plan for our lives.

But have you ever stopped to thank God for this remarkable gift?

In the quiet moments of contemplation, I often find myself overwhelmed by the strength and solace that faith brings to my life. It’s a guiding light in the darkness, a comforting presence in times of uncertainty.

Thanking God for the gift of faith is an expression of profound gratitude. It acknowledges His love and grace that allows us to believe and trust in Him.

That’s why you should consider your own faith journey. Reflect on the moments of doubt and the moments of unshakeable trust. Thank God for the gift of faith.

This act of gratitude can bring you closer to Him, fostering a stronger bond with your Creator.

Where do we go from here?

Gratitude is a vital spiritual practice. It’s a bridge that connects us to God and deepens our relationship with Him. As we cultivate a habit of thanking God, even for the smallest things, we invite His presence into our daily lives.

  • Begin each day with a prayer of thanks
  • End each day reflecting on the blessings you’ve received
  • Keep a gratitude journal to record your thankful thoughts

These are small steps but can bring about a profound shift in our spiritual lives. As we express our gratitude to God, we begin to see His hand in everything, and we feel closer to Him.

Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”.

It’s a way of life, a way of being that brings us closer to our Creator. So let’s cultivate this habit and experience the deep, personal connection with God that gratitude can bring.

What would Jesus say?

Unsure whether to move on from a failed marriage? Struggling with desire and feeling guilty for it? Wanting to live a life Jesus would be proud of?

Let Jesus tell you how to be a good Christian according to the teachings of the Bible.

We brought Jesus back to life with the help of AI. Ask your toughest life questions, and Jesus will tell you exactly what to do.

Check it out here.

 

Elizabeth Carter

Elizabeth Carter

I'm Elizabeth Carter, the heart behind Biblescripture.net. I’m a theology graduate from Boston College who found her calling in making the Bible's wisdom vibrant and accessible. Alongside my studies, I cultivated a love for peaceful morning walks and deep conversations about faith over coffee. Every day, I'm here to walk with you through scripture, making its teachings not just accessible, but a vibrant part of your daily life. Join me in discovering how these ancient words can transform us in the most beautiful ways.

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