The Transformative Power of Gratitude, with Amanda Schaefer

Summary:
*The conversation discusses the power and simplicity of gratitude as a spiritual discipline.
*Gratitude is seen as a choice and a discipline that can lead to transformation and intimacy with God.
*Practicing gratitude can rewire the brain's neural network to focus more on positive aspects.
*Simple daily practices, such as acknowledging things to be grateful for, can cultivate gratitude.
*Gratitude can combat negative emotions like fear and anxiety, promoting peace.
*Engaging with biblical teachings, like Philippians 4:8, can help maintain a posture of gratitude.
*The discussion emphasizes the importance of intimacy with God for true gratitude and compassion.
*Gratitude and love are linked, with love being viewed as faith in action and compassion.
*Practicing gratitude can lead to improvements in one's life, including emotional and spiritual growth.
*Gratitude is portrayed as a gift from God, intended to be shared with others as an overflow of His love.

Podcast Intro:
Gratitude is an ever-present concept in our lives, yet we often underestimate its power to transform our perspectives and experiences. The episode today was a great conversation with author, podcast host and speaker, Amanda Schaefer.

She shared her insights on how the simplicity of gratitude can be more profound than we imagine, offering a window into a value system that transcends our earthly understanding. Gratitude, she explains, is not a trait some are simply born with, but a discipline and a choice that anyone can learn and embrace. It is an attitude that, when practiced intentionally, can lead to a profound transformation in one's spiritual and emotional life.

Amanda discovered gratitude is part of our neural pathway that, once traveled repeatedly, becomes a well-worn trail in our minds. This practice of choosing to focus on the positive aspects of life, even amid challenges, reaps, peace, joy, and blessings. 

By acknowledging the beauty and goodness around us, we can cultivate a mindset that anticipates good things and, in turn, experiences more of it. This is not to say that gratitude is a natural inclination for everyone; it requires conscious effort and practice. Amanda emphasizes that the discipline of gratitude is something that has to be developed, much like any other skill or habit. Once the habit is formed, you will naturally perceive and notice countless things to be thankful for.

The practice of gratitude is not complicated. Amanda recounts how she began a simple morning routine of expressing gratitude before her feet even touched the ground. By starting the day with a focus on the goodness of God, she found that it set a positive tone for the rest of her day. When one is grateful, feelings of fear and anxiety are replaced with peace and joy, as gratitude and fear cannot coexist.

Moreover, Amanda highlights the biblical perspective on gratitude. We talked about Philippians 4:8, which encourages believers to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. This verse encapsulates a heart posture of gratitude, guiding individuals to meditate on the good and praiseworthy things in life. In doing so, one aligns closer with a life of peace and intimacy with God. The act of focusing on gratitude is not just a spiritual exercise but a transformative experience that can renew the mind and spirit.

Throughout this conversation Amanda reminds us, this practice of gratitude is within everyone's reach and can bring about profound personal and spiritual growth and create deeper intimacy with Christ.

Let’s listen in and be encouraged today!

Live Loved and Thrive! @alifeofthrive.com

Other Related Podcast and/or Blog:
Blog - Hallelujah! https://alifeofthrive.com/2021/11/02/hallelujah/
Podcast: Donna Renay Patrick - When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned: https://alifeofthrive.com/2021/11/10/donna-patrick/

Connect with Amanda:
Website: www.acupofgratitude.org
IG: www.instagram.com/acupof_gratitude
FB: www.facebook.com/amanda.f.schaefer

Bio:
Amanda Schaefer is a podcast host, author, and speaker. She carries with her the goodness of looking through a lens of gratitude. The “A Cup of Gratitude” podcast is global, reaching over 111 countries and 3000 cities. As a speaker, Amanda teaches the Bible while challenging audiences to live the way God intends. She has a way of making scripture come alive through everyday examples. Amanda’s books include, “Crumbled, A Place for Broken People” and “Daily “Instaration.” She is a contributing author of “Life Changing Stories and the newly released books, “One Chance, One Dance, Don’t Miss the Moments in Your Life,” and “Courageous Voices Unlocked.” Her books are down to earth and packed with Biblical truth. Amanda has also written articles for “The Brave Women Series,” “The Uncommon Normal Gratitude Series,” “The Love Offering,” “The Warrior Women Series,” “Butterfly Living, “The Empty Nest Mom Series,” and “The Season Series.” She has a new collaborative book project due to be released this December and is under contract to write a new manuscript slated to be released in February 2025.