Gratitude

"Metaphysical Messages"

I read a good little book a while back called "The Magic of Gratitude" by Rhonda Byrne. She makes the case for how being grateful for the things that you already have brings more blessings into your life. I believe this is a Universal Truth.

Have you ever noticed how when you focus on the things that are "not going right" and get upset, then one thing after another seems to "go wrong"? Many people say they are having a "bad day". Well of course with this mindset it is going to seem like you are having a bad day.

The way to turn that around is to find something to be grateful for in every situation. No matter how small. Because everything has 2 sides, just like a coin. And the more you focus on the negative, the more that you are going to see negative. The more you focus on the positive, the more you will see positive. And for those of us in New Thought, we believe you actually bring about more of what you focus on into your experience. This is why it's so important to let go of negative thoughts and thinking to break those patterns. When you truly do this that is when things start to change for the better in your life.

You have the power over your own emotions, actions and thoughts. Accepting that you are not in control of other people, places and things is a good thing. That is an important part of letting go. The only person you are truly in control of is yourself. So why not focus on making the most of out every situation!

Here are some verses to think about:

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

- 1 Thessalonians 5:18

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."

- Psalm 103:2-5

"I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me."

- Philippians 4:12-13

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

- Philippians 4:6-7

“Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn’t learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn’t learn a little, at least we didn’t get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn’t die; so, let us all be thankful.”

– Gautama Buddha

"Gratitude is to honor, recognize and appreciate everyone and everything for a higher purpose."

– Radhanath Swami

Gratitude comes from our soul. It's not dependent on material possessions or wealth. Ingratitude comes from the insatiable ego, which is never satisfied. When we are in Christ Consciousness, we are thankful for everything, all we have, all we are, and where we are right now. In doing that, being and thinking from a place of gratitude, the Universe will bring countless blessings.

If you find yourself focusing on what you do not have, a lack mindset, or complaining about something, examine how you might think differently. You are the only one who can change your beliefs about your life for the better.

This does not mean you should not have goals, plans or dreams. It is simply a better, more positive and productive way to look at the world around you and go about bringing those dreams into existence.

I challenge you to make a gratitude list in the morning and each time you catch yourself about to step out of thankfulness.

God bless you, have a great week and Namaste.

Rev. S. Castle