Studies have shown that the attitude you have for the day is set in the first eight minutes of your day.

The question is, do you want to grumble, gripe, and grunt your way through the day, or do you want to be grateful?

The Bible says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (James 1:17 NIV).

Gratitude allows us to focus on our loving Father who meets all of our needs.

Pastor, don’t start your day with confession or requests.

Start your day with gratitude.

Think about God and his goodness. Thank him for being a good Father and for being caring, close, and consistent. List the ways he’s been good to you. Tell him what you’re thankful for. You don’t have to worry about the right thing to say. Just say what you feel and what’s on your mind.

One of the ways you can start your day with thankfulness is to make a playlist of songs. Choose songs of gratitude that remind you of who God is and what he has done for you. Play it as soon as you open your eyes so that your first thoughts are of gratitude. Worship is the best way to wake up!

You can also make a list of the things you’re thankful for and keep it near your bed or wherever you have a quiet time with Jesus. A gratitude list can help keep your mind focused on God’s goodness, regardless of your circumstances.

When you wake up each morning, make sure the first thing you’re doing is thanking God for his consistent love and recalling all the ways that he is good to you.

Get up with gratitude. It will change everything about your day!