Studies continue to show that exercise is a “cure all” for just about everything! It even helps mental health.

I’m convinced that being thankful is a “cure all” for emotional and spiritual health. Expressing gratitude changes our perspective. That’s why one of the cures for worry is to be thankful. As Paul said in Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT),

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. 

Here are 5 things I’m thankful for this year.

1.    I am thankful for Ridgers. I’ve said many times that Ridgers are second to none. I’ve seen them do “whatever it takes” time and time again through the years, whether it be by serving, caring for others, commitment to our vision, or generosity with their finances. Ridgers demonstrated that again with For Their Future. Not only did we hit our financial goal, we exceeded it!

2.    I am so thankful for Jesus. I know, you expect me to say that. But, here’s a different way to find gratitude for Jesus: what would my life be like today without Him? I can’t imagine…the lack of peace, joy, and contentment I would experience every day. I would not know that my many sins are forgiven. I would not have Someone to walk through this life with me and give me strength and peace. And I would not have hope when I die. 

3.    I am thankful for a wife who never complains. Being a pastor can be really hard. Being a pastor’s wife is even harder. Not only does Janet support me in ministry, she is the most content person I’ve ever known.

4.    I am thankful for the difficulties I’ve experienced in life and continue to experience. I don’t like them. I would much rather do without them. But, when I step back and consider the larger perspective, trials have helped me grow, they’ve helped me peel back the layers and address issues deep within me, and they’ve developed my character.

5.    I am thankful for successful football seasons for Notre Dame and the Chicago Bears. This one sounds a bit shallow. But it sure has made weekends fun this fall, knowing that when I sit down and watch a football game, the Bears and Irish have won most of them! So, yes, I’m thankful for those little moments that make life enjoyable.

Whatever it takes,

Jerry