Manage episode 520834663 series 3326110
If the headlines feel loud and your heart feels thin, consider this your invitation to build a gratitude mindset that actually sticks. We take a clear, practical walk through the habits that make thankfulness more than a seasonal feeling—so it becomes a steady way of seeing your life, your relationships, and God’s provision.
We start by bridging science and Scripture: how positive psychology’s findings on gratitude align with ancient wisdom that calls us to give thanks. From there, we get tactical. You’ll learn a simple journaling flow you can do in five minutes, why pen and paper beat tapping on a screen, and how that small ritual lowers stress and lifts your mood. We talk about making grace at meals honest and specific, not rote—and why a short prayer can reshape the tone of a table, whether you’re at home or grabbing a quick bite.
Then we move into savoring: 30-second pauses that train your brain to notice what’s good, an easy “awe walk” to reset attention, and a nighttime “three good things” practice that improves sleep and nurtures hope. We also tackle the screen-time trap with a realistic plan—start with one phone-free meal and build from there—so presence with the people you love becomes possible again. Along the way, you’ll hear timeless lines from G.K. Chesterton and reflections from decades of counseling work that connect gratitude with resilience, health, and a longer, lighter life.
Ready to try it this week? Pick one habit—journal a line, say a heartfelt grace, take a 10-minute awe walk—and tell us how it goes. If this helped you breathe a little easier, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review so more people can find these tools for a calmer, more grateful life.
Be sure to check out my website www.johnthurman.net
Chapters
1. Setting The Thanksgiving Frame (00:00:00)
2. Chesterton On Thanks And Wonder (00:01:07)
3. Science Meets Scripture On Gratitude (00:02:19)
4. Cutting Negativity And Screen Time (00:03:31)
5. Why Gratitude Matters For Christians (00:04:00)
6. Practical Gratitude Journaling Steps (00:06:31)
7. Make Mealtimes Truly Thankful (00:08:00)
8. Savoring, Awe Walks, And Sleep (00:10:15)
9. Limit Screens To Be Present (00:12:30)
10. Closing Blessing And Resources (00:13:40)
80 episodes