Gratitude is the ability to experience life as a gift. It liberates us from the prison of self preoccupation

Gratitude is the ability to experience life as a gift. It liberates us from the prison of self preoccupation

John Ortberg is a renowned author, speaker, and pastor who has written extensively on the topic of gratitude and its transformative power in our lives. In his book, "The Life You've Always Wanted: Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People," Ortberg delves into the concept of gratitude as the ability to experience life as a gift. He argues that when we cultivate a spirit of gratitude, we are liberated from the prison of self-preoccupation and are able to fully embrace and appreciate the beauty and wonder of life.

Ortberg believes that gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion or a polite gesture of thanks, but a deep-seated attitude and perspective that shapes how we view the world around us. When we approach life with a sense of gratitude, we are able to see the blessings and opportunities that surround us, even in the midst of challenges and difficulties. This shift in perspective allows us to break free from the cycle of negative thinking and self-absorption that can often hold us back from experiencing true joy and fulfillment.

One of the key aspects of gratitude, according to Ortberg, is the recognition that life itself is a gift. When we acknowledge that every breath we take, every sunrise we witness, and every relationship we cherish is a precious gift from God, we are filled with a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty and abundance of the world around us. This awareness of the gift of life can inspire us to live with a spirit of generosity, compassion, and joy, as we seek to share our blessings with others and make a positive impact on the world.

Ortberg also emphasizes the importance of practicing gratitude as a spiritual discipline, a daily habit that can help us cultivate a heart of thankfulness and appreciation. By intentionally focusing on the things we are grateful for, whether big or small, we can train our minds and hearts to see the world through a lens of abundance and grace. This practice of gratitude can not only bring us closer to God and deepen our faith, but also lead to greater contentment, resilience, and inner peace.