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Gratitude as Courage-Monday, 01/19/2026

Scripture: Psalm 118:1–9

Gratitude is often misunderstood as something we practice only when life feels good. But Scripture shows gratitude as a form of courage—a way of choosing trust even when circumstances are uncertain. The psalmist gives thanks not because life is easy, but because God’s steadfast love is reliable.

On this day when we remember Martin Luther King Jr., it is worth reflecting on how gratitude and courage are connected. Dr. King once said, “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” That kind of hope is sustained by gratitude—not gratitude that ignores pain, but gratitude that remembers what is true about God, even when the struggle is long.

Gratitude becomes an act of resistance against despair. It reminds us that hardship does not get the final word, and that God’s love continues to shape the future in ways we cannot yet see.

Reflection Question:
Where might practicing gratitude help you face disappointment with courage and hope?

Practice:
Name one disappointment you’re carrying. Then name one way God’s love has not let go of you in the midst of it.

Prayer:
God of hope, teach me to give thanks even when the road is hard. Strengthen my courage through remembrance of your love. Amen.