Written By: Pastor James

Welcome to another Friday edition of “Growing Greatness,” where we help parents and grandparents inspire #BeAmazing kids! This week, we’re focusing on a value that has the power to brighten hearts, strengthen families, and build resilient communities—Gratitude.

Why Gratitude Matters

Gratitude is more than saying “thank you.” It’s an attitude of the heart that helps us notice and appreciate the blessings in our lives—big and small. In a world that often emphasizes what we lack, gratitude shifts our focus to what we have and who we love. It helps our children develop empathy, contentment, and a positive outlook, even in tough times.

The Bible reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18:
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Teaching our children to be grateful isn’t just about good manners—it’s about nurturing hearts that see God’s goodness everywhere and respond with joy and generosity.

How to Grow Grateful Hearts at Every Age

For Young Children (Ages 3–7):

• Model Thankfulness: Let your little ones hear you thank God in prayer, and express thanks to others throughout the day.
• Gratitude Jars: Start a family gratitude jar. Each day, help your child add a note or drawing about something they’re thankful for.
• Thank You Notes: Encourage your child to make simple thank you cards for teachers, friends, or neighbors.

For Elementary Kids (Ages 8–12):

• Gratitude Lists: Challenge your child to write down three things they’re grateful for each day. Share your lists at dinner or bedtime.
• Acts of Kindness: Help your child express gratitude through action—like baking cookies for a neighbor or helping a sibling with chores.
• Story Time: Read Bible stories or books that highlight thankfulness, and discuss how gratitude changed the characters’ lives.

For Teens (Ages 13+):

• Journaling: Encourage your teen to keep a gratitude journal, especially during stressful times.
• Serving Others: Invite your teen to volunteer with you at church or in the community, showing gratitude by giving back.
• Family Conversations: Talk honestly about challenges, but always look for reasons to be thankful—even in hard seasons.

How Do You Cultivate Gratitude in Your Family?

Every family has unique ways of giving thanks—whether it’s a prayer before meals, a gratitude walk in the park, or a simple hug after a long day. The important thing is to make gratitude a daily habit, not just a holiday tradition.

When we nurture gratitude in our children, we’re helping them become joyful, compassionate, and resilient—ready to face life’s ups and downs with hope and humility.

Spreading Gratitude Across Memphis

Memphis is a city rich in music, history, and heart. Imagine if every child in our city learned to see blessings everywhere and to share thanks generously! Share this article with your friends, family, and church community, and let’s ignite a gratitude movement—one thankful heart at a time.

Let’s keep growing greatness together—one grateful child, one loving family, one united city at a time!

Look for next week’s article on Kindness—coming Friday!

Blessings,
Pastor James