Thankfulness Is A Game Changer

Over 34 million people are expected to watch football tomorrow on Thanksgiving, as the NFL has three games scheduled. During these broadcasts, commentators may refer to a "game-changing" play, which is a pivotal moment that significantly alters the course of the game. This could involve a major score by the offense, a critical turnover forced by the defense, or an essential play made by special teams.

Sometimes, we need to change our direction. Our thoughts might be leading us astray, or our actions may be causing more problems than they solve. It could be a child who is struggling or a relationship that isn't healthy. You might also be navigating a busy and stressful season in your life or battling through the pain of grief.  In any case, what you need is a transformative moment.

Therefore, think of thankfulness as a game changer. See, Thanksgiving provides that unique opportunity to take inventory of our blessings and doing so can produce postive shift in your overall thinking. Neurological research indicates that thankfulness can undoubtedly transform your thinking and your responses to adversity.  For example The Lone Star Neurolgy Group says, "Gratitude serves a powerful tool that enchacnes and activates specific areas of the brain while improving emotional regulation, whcih directly influences our attitude and quality of life. Brain functionality can be affected by stress, life circumstances, and various health conditions, making gratitude brain functionpractices essential for healthy cognitive development. Every day, people encounter numerous stressful situations and challenges. Gratitude offers one of the most effective approaches for emotional regulation and brain health, opening new pathways for reframing problems. When people practice gratitude, they feel safer and more comfortable, enabling them to solve problems more effectively."

Based on this information and other related studies from the neuroscience community, thankfulness is seen as a game changer.  This means that thankfulness is not merely a feeling or and impulse towards something we appreciate; rather, it is a conscious choice.  Now, long before there were neurological studies, the Scripture was directing us to choose thankfulness.  Colossians 4:2 states, "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful."

Being devoted and dedicated to anything, especially prayer, vigilance, and thankfulness, requires deliberate choices.   We must choose to view our circumstances, no matter how challenging they may be, as temporary and ultimately part of God's plan. Instead of fixating on our problems, we should focus on counting our blessings. By choosing thankfulness, we not only enhance our own lives but, through God's grace, we create transformative moments in our minds and in the world around us.