It has the power to uplift the soul, like a passionate love song has the power to ignite a flame.

It acts as a deepener and an intensifier of ALL love, especially the love for the Provider of IT ALL: our Father in Heaven.

Gratitude is a grounder and a stabilizer, much like the foundation of a well-built home.....

It propels and expands our relationship with Christ, like the increasing number of branches on a tree; making it flourish.

Its vital nourishment of spirit and soul, and in cases of great faith, extends to feed even the body.

Its power overflows in generosity, like a compassionate heart leads to a warm embrace.

It's a strengthener of all that is good, it aids and revitalizes spiritual growth.
Gratitude is as essential in the life of the believer, as drywall is to the building of a strong and safe structure.

On the flip side--

      Without gratitude--

           Spiritual growth is ....Greatly stifled

 

BUT
Counting one's blessings in the midst of a trial is beautiful for our Lord to behold.......
And furthermore, acknowledging the positive, hidden beneath the negative can be deemed a simile of gratitude.

An exercise in gratitude--

Look around your home, appreciate all you see and express your heartfelt thanks to your Father in Heaven, for He is your source. Be happy and satisfied with all you have. Fight those feelings of deprivation of all you don't have. Remind yourself of everything God has done for you and give Him thanks and praise.

MOREOVER

When we learn to bask in this grateful countenance, it makes for a spectacular witness:
"Why am I so happy, all the time you ask? Well, sit right down and let me tell you all about it!"