BBC Radio Sheffield is devoting the whole of 17th March to ‘Good News Friday’, seeking stories of good news in our local communities. The news so often seems to focus on one disaster after another and can be very depressing, so it’s great to hear of the media recognising the power of good news and celebrating the good things that are going on in the community. The Metro newspaper (free on buses and trains) also regularly features a ‘Good Deed Feed’ in its letters’ page, with people reporting on the kindnesses and help they’ve received from people in society. These stories are tremendously encouraging.
One of the things we need to do regularly is to pause and give thanks for all the good things we have in life. Embracing thankfulness is an essential part of spiritual growth. Some of us are more naturally positive and thankful than others, but the need for thankfulness runs through the entire Bible (see 1 Thess 5:18, 1 Chron 16:34, Ps 7:17, Ps 118:1, Jer 33:11, 1 Cor 15:57, just to whet your appetite!) It’s also recognised more generally: Cicero, the ancient philosopher, once said, ‘Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.’ Psychological studies reinforce these truths; there are 17 benefits of gratitude listed here:
- Reduce depression
- Get promotions at work
- Improve our self esteem
- Increase our energy
- Develop a strong immune system
- Decrease blood pressure
- Increase sleep quality
- Reduce and cope with negative stress
- Eat healthier
- Have deeper friendships
- Increase productivity
- Improve job performance
- Become more likable
- Reach goals faster
- Increase feelings of happiness and wellbeing
- Reduce negative emotions such as envy, hatred, and anger
- Increase positive emotions such as love and empathy
The first step to thankfulness is to stop and think. ‘Count your blessings; name them one by one,’ the hymn says. As we do this, we realise how much God has blessed us and we can grow spiritually by reflecting on God’s goodness and help to us.
