Gratitude and Appreciation
The Same Yet Different
I am grateful that God brings me through tough times but am I appreciative of the tough times? I am appreciative that God not never leaves me but am I grateful for the times I feel alone?
Gratitude means The condition or quality of being grateful; an emotion or sentiment of thankfulness. A warm sense of appreciation for a kindness received; accompanied by a feeling of good will toward the benefactor, and a desire to repay the favor.
Appreciation means gratitude; thankful recognition. The act of estimating the qualities of things and giving them their proper value. Clear perception or recognition, especially of aesthetic quality: a course in art appreciation. An increase or rise in the value of property, goods, etc. Critical notice; evaluation; opinion, as of a situation, person, etc.
We see in the definitions the two are intertwined with each other. Each definitions expresses each other. However in the questions, there is a difference. Yes, you can have gratitude and appreciation at the same time. Just as you can be grateful/appreciative and not be appreciative/grateful at the time. Of course, I am reminded of the passage in James that says
“2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:2-4
How do we maintain an attitude of gratitude and appreciation in our heart? By hiding His Word in our heart, Recalling it when needed, and Claiming it out loud!!!
Here are Three verses that we can Hide, Recall and Claim:
- Romans 12:12 “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
- Philippians 4:4” Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
As a child, I learned the verse Philippians 4:4 to a tune that repeated the verse over and over again. I can’t tell you how many times, I have sung this verse to change the attitude of my heart, while gratefully serving but not feeling appreciated. It all boils down to one thing.
Do you want to dig a little deeper? I have a study guide prepared for you to download for free. Click Here! Gratitude and Appreciation Study Guide.
Serving others with a grateful and appreciative heart is serving the Lord!
In His Love, Crisi