Wisestep.com says that there are certain areas of the human brain that are positively affected by gratefulness and appreciation. Especially the hypothalamus that controls the fundamental bodily functions like sleeping and eating and dopamine, which is the reward neurotransmitter and is largely influenced from feelings of gratefulness. Conversely, Phycologytoday.com warns that it can also have negative effects, such as lowering one’s aspirations. If one spends all of one’s time being appreciative and content with the status quo, it draws attention away from future possibilities. Thus, one should be mindful of a balance between aspiration and appreciation in life.
God, the Architect of the human brain knows this too, so life has times when we are appreciated, and times when appreciation is put aside or introspection and required change through aspiration, and sometimes even forced by circumstance.
King David says in 2Samuel 7:20 – 23 (GNB) What more can I say to you! You know me, your servant. It was your will and purpose to do this; you have done all these great things in order to instruct me. How great you are, Sovereign LORD! There is none like you; we have always known that you alone are God.
Dear Lord, take my hand today, that I may know, you know me, my ways together with my conscious and subconscious mind. As do I need to feel appreciated, help me to not stiffen my spiritual growth, aspiration, and consideration of others. Make me gentle and kind, in Jesus’ name, Amen. Dr Cliff Ferguson – Shalom Centurion.