The Altitude of Gratitude

Have you noticed that in the last couple of years people tend to be more agitated and grumpier than before? Stress levels have increased almost every year in the last 30 years. Some studies indicate that stress is up by over 30%. Stress is a major contributor to our mood, our responsiveness, our ability to interact with people, and our emotional intelligence. Stress can also have physical implications too, which can further cause us to be more agitated or grumpy.

The other day I was pulling out of a parking spot and the car behind me was waiting patiently. Another car comes down that row and swerves around both of us, yelling and almost caused an accident. I'll be honest I really wanted to yell back, but I let it go. Later that day, while I was getting coffee, there was a customer behind me who appeared agitated and soon began to make loud comments to the barista.

Perhaps these scenes feel familiar to you, or perhaps it's a neighbor or family member who seems to be ticked off at the smallest infraction. Do you know someone who always seems annoyed or negative or angry at the world? Does it seem impossible to change their attitude or perhaps your attitude?

John 14:15-16 "If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever."

The Bible says that God will send me an advocate, The Holy Spirit, to be with us and guide us. I find that when I submit myself, my feelings, and my life to God that He elevates my level of gratitude. The Holy Spirit gives me a change of perspective and allows me to respond more positively.

It is kind of like hiking. At the base of the mountain, the trail seems so daunting. How am I ever going to make it pass this obstacle, uggh Why did I choose to do this? But at the peak of the mountain, one's perspective changes and you get to admire the beauty of all that transpired. This month we are talking about raising the Altitude of Gratitude in our relationship with God, Our Friends/Family, and the World. Join us as we learn about how God can help you cultivate a grateful heart.

By Pastor Alex Hardt

November Sermon Series
Week 1 - Elevating Your Relationship With God
Main: John 14:15-21
Memory: John 14:21

Week 2 - Climbing the Relationship Mountain
Main: Philippians 2:1-5
Memory: Philippians 2:3-4

Week 3 - Clicked Into Others
Main: Ezekiel 33:2-7
Memory: Proverbs 14:25

Week 4- A Valley of Thanks
Main: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18
​Memory: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18