An Attitude of Gratitude: One of the Secrets to Healing After Divorce
Gratitude isn’t a one-month message. It’s a lifestyle that can transform your heart, mind, and even your body—especially in seasons of loss.
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
For eight years, I was a teacher. Every November I’d help my students cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude. But what I’ve learned since walking through my divorce is that gratitude isn’t just for November, it’s a way of life.
Gratitude as Healing
During my divorce, one of the darkest valleys of my life, I discovered that gratitude is a powerful part of healing. It’s not just a nice idea; it impacts our whole being. Research shows gratitude supports emotional and physical health, while chronic negativity and complaining can increase stress and wear down the body. Think about the word disease—a lack of dis-ease, or peace, in our bodies.
My Gratitude Question
Inside my Hope & Healing Coaching Program, our Gratitude Module begins with a question that stops you in your tracks:
When I was in my hardest season, I made a choice: I would thank God not just after the blessing but before.
Thanking God Before the Miracle
I thanked Him for the home I didn’t yet have, for the neighbors I hadn’t met, and for the peace I hadn’t felt. God led me to a brand new home, with amazing neighbors, right by a lake. I walked there almost every morning, watching the sunrise over the water. I called it “My Healing Place.”
When I chose not to be weighed down by the emotions that come with the death of a marriage, I began to see all the good already around me.
Be Grateful for Who God Is in the Struggle
He is Emmanuel—God with us. Even when you feel alone, He is near and carries your tears (Psalm 34:18).
He keeps His promises and finishes what He starts (Philippians 1:6). Thank Him for what He’s doing before you can see it.
God wastes nothing. He turns valleys into holy ground and pain into purpose (Romans 8:28).
What the Bible Says About Gratitude
The Bible references gratitude, thanksgiving, and giving thanks well over 150 times. God repeats it because thankfulness keeps our hearts soft and our eyes open to His goodness.
Psalm 100:4 — “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.”
Philippians 4:6 — “In every situation… with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
John 11:41 — Before raising Lazarus, Jesus gave thanks. Gratitude preceded the miracle.
Choose Gratitude Today
As Thanksgiving approaches, don’t just list blessings—live thankful. Gratitude doesn’t deny pain; it invites God’s peace into it. It doesn’t ignore the storm; it anchors you in the One who stills it.