Gratitude Among Family and Loved Ones

Having friends, family, and loved ones who remind us of the love that surrounds our hearts is essential. In this article, learn how to appreciate the blessings of having such guiding lights in your life right now.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

From the moment we are born, we need human contact. We also need to feel the presence of the Holy Spirit within us. The warmth and love of the Lord guide us from an early age.

We are born into various groups, whether small or large: family, friends, school, community, neighborhood. Within these groups, we grow, develop, and strengthen. Others act as mirrors, helping us understand and know ourselves better.

In these groups, the presence of the Heavenly Father may vary. What matters most is the bond formed through love, respect, and faith.

"And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.'" Luke 22:19

Human beings have evolved, acquiring various skills and talents through the spiritual and healing guidance provided by God.

Alongside our social nature and our ability to connect, communicate, share, and collaborate, we form unique bonds and relationships with family and friends.

We all know that humans are not born in isolation: from birth, we need specific care, contact, affection, and love to survive.

Equally important is our interaction with spirituality and hope, proclaiming faith alongside others. Through these interactions, we gain essential lessons for survival and personal development.

How do you engage with faith in these groups? What role do you typically play? How does the presence of the Lord in your family and friend groups make you feel?

"But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, 'Salvation comes from the Lord.'" Jonah 2:9

To feel comfortable within any group, no matter how small, we must actively participate. These interactions provide insights into ourselves, reflecting how we connect and mirror others.

The opportunities God gives us to help those we truly care about teach us who we are, how we love, what blocks us, and what we need to develop or address.

They help us understand why we make certain choices and the influence others have on our behavior. How do we carry forward God's Word and His guidance?

Consider how your spiritual life is influenced by your groups: Do they bring out the best in you? Do they encourage you to improve? Or do they dwell in criticism and disdain? Reflect on how they make you feel and decide which groups deserve your love, energy, and time.

"Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts." Colossians 3:16

We must strive to heal any wounds in our friendships and family ties. We should be able to forgive those we truly love, always trusting that the Lord's light will guide us and provide the right words and moments.

Pain is not to be denied; it is an opportunity to delve into our inner world, to know ourselves better, and to draw closer to Jesus. Forgiving, accepting, loving, and moving forward with peace and emotional balance are essential to continue on God's path.