The Power of Gratitude: How It Strengthens Us in Hard Times and Shapes Who We Are by Dr. Trudy Simmons, Milton Counseling & Coaching

Gratitude is more than a polite “thank you.” It is a posture of the heart—a spiritual discipline and a therapeutic practice that changes how we experience life. In my years as a counselor and coach, I’ve witnessed the profound ways gratitude transforms people from the inside out. It shifts our perspective, helps us heal, and strengthens us during life’s hardest seasons.

While gratitude may seem simple, its impact is profound. Scripture tells us, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Gratitude is not denial—it’s a declaration that God is still good even when life feels hard.

Gratitude Refocuses and Rewires the Mind

Modern neuroscience confirms what Scripture has long taught: gratitude renews the mind. When we express genuine thankfulness, our brains release dopamine and serotonin—two of the “feel-good” neurotransmitters responsible for improving mood, motivation, and resilience. Over time, practicing gratitude literally rewires the brain to focus more on what is good and possible rather than what is missing or broken.

In counseling and coaching, I often encourage clients to start a “gratitude practice”—writing down three things they’re thankful for each day. It may sound small, but it begins to retrain the mind to see blessings even amid pain. What we repeatedly focus on grows stronger, and gratitude helps us build new neural pathways that lead to peace, hope, and emotional stability.

Romans 12:2 reminds us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Gratitude is one of the most powerful ways to do just that—it helps us move from reaction to reflection, from fear to faith.

Gratitude Strengthens Us in Hard Times

When life unravels—when jobs are lost, relationships strain, or dreams feel delayed—gratitude becomes an anchor for the soul. It doesn’t erase pain, but it offers perspective. It reminds us that even in uncertainty, God’s faithfulness remains constant.

From a therapeutic standpoint, gratitude helps calm the body’s stress response. It lowers cortisol levels and activates the parasympathetic nervous system, allowing the body to rest and heal. Spiritually, gratitude draws us closer to the heart of God. It says, “Lord, even when I don’t understand, I trust that You are with me.”

As both a counselor and a coach, I’ve seen gratitude turn despair into direction. When clients begin to name what they’re thankful for—even small things—it shifts their energy from helplessness to empowerment. Gratitude doesn’t just help us survive the storm; it teaches us how to grow through it.

Gratitude Shapes Our Character and Identity

Gratitude is not only something we do; it becomes part of who we are. It softens the heart, builds empathy, and fosters deeper connection with others. People who live with gratitude tend to exhibit higher emotional intelligence, better relationships, and stronger resilience in the face of adversity.

Spiritually, a grateful heart aligns us with God’s character. It humbles us, reminding us that every breath, every opportunity, every moment of grace is a gift. Gratitude is what allows us to walk through difficult seasons with peace, knowing that even the trials are forming something beautiful within us.

Practical Ways to Cultivate a Grateful Heart

1. Start a Gratitude Journal: Each morning or evening, write down three things you’re thankful for. Be specific—it trains the brain to look for God’s hand in everyday life.

2. Shift Your Language: Replace “I have to” with “I get to.” It reframes tasks as opportunities rather than obligations.

3. Pray with Thanksgiving: Philippians 4:6 reminds us to bring our requests with thanksgiving. Gratitude activates peace before the answer arrives.

4. Use Gratitude in Coaching or Counseling Conversations: Ask reflective questions such as, “What is one thing that’s still good, even in this?” or “Where can you see God’s grace at work right now?”

5. Express It to Others: Gratitude spoken heals hearts—yours and theirs.

Closing Reflection

Gratitude is one of God’s greatest gifts to the human spirit. It rewires our brains, renews our minds, and restores our hope. It’s not a quick fix but a powerful practice that transforms how we live and love. When we give thanks, even in pain, we invite God into the very places that hurt—and that’s where healing begins.

“I will give thanks to You, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonderful deeds.” —Psalm 9:1

So today, pause and breathe. Look around you. Whisper a quiet thank you—for the lessons, the love, and even the losses that shaped you. Gratitude won’t always change your circumstances, but it will always change you.

For more information about counseling/coaching, speaking, or workshops, please reach out to Dr. Trudy.

With gratitude,

Dr. Trudy Simmons, PhD

Counselor, Coach, and Host of The Christian View

Founder of Milton Counseling & Coaching

Learn more: https://miltoncounseling.com/

Follow them: https://www.instagram.com/drtrudysimmons/