Having a rough day? We’ve all been where you’re standing—some days can truly be a challenge.

Whether it’s the stress of work or home life, relationship or family struggles, or financial hardships, this life comes along with some tough times. However, through it all, God is merciful, and that alone can help us get through those rough days. Sometimes, reigning in the power of gratitude and faith makes all the difference.

The True Power of Living a Grateful Life

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks;” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NKJV)

As Christians, we are reminded throughout the Bible to be grateful for all things in life, even on bad days. Being thankful builds our bond with the Father because it is a consistent reminder that we serve a loving God that provides so much good to us.

We are offered the gift of life, as well as the promise of everlasting life for believing in Him—two tremendous reasons to feel thankful. However, small blessings abound in most of our lives just the same, even though it can sometimes be hard to focus on the good for the bad. Nevertheless, when you take the time to focus on all the small amazing ways we are kept in His grace, the negative things seem obsolete and less important.

While finding a reason to be grateful can be difficult on days when everything seems to be going wrong, practicing gratitude is undeniably beneficial. The age-old reminder to count your blessings can truly be life-changing. Psychological research has proven that living a grateful life can actually improve personal relationships, reduce stress, and enhance self-esteem. Practicing gratitude strengthens our bonds of faith, but it also benefits us on an emotional level.

The Value of Everyday Faith

“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.”(1 Corinthians 16:13, NKJV)

Proclaiming that you have faith is easy. Most believers live with no doubt that God exists, and that his word is true.

However, putting that faith into practice daily, walking in everyday faith—standing fast—is something many people struggle with. How many times have you heard someone say their faith is shaken because of their woes? Because we love God, we naturally have an inclination to believe He will protect us from all harm. Therefore, when bad things happen, it’s all too easy to question why we are hurting. Yet, true faith comes when we accept that we may not always get what we think we need or want, but what we actually need.

Having everyday faith means living in confidence in God’s bigger plan, no matter what challenges the day brings. Sometimes, this level of faith is only accomplished when you come to realize that there will be both trials and triumphs, and all our part of God’s merciful plan for you.

Gratitude + Faith = A Life of Peace and Promise

“I will praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14, NKJV)

The combination of gratitude and faith is often touted as the key to a peaceful life. When you’re thankful for blessings—great and small—faith naturally grows. When you place your faith in the plans God has for you, trials and tribulations can be less like life burdens and more like strengthening obstacles you know you are designed to overcome. With this knowledge, even everyday challenges evolve into something new to be grateful for, which further strengthens your bond with God.