The Power of Gratitude in Marriage

As we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday, I wanted to share some simple truths I learned about the power of gratitude in marriage.

Think of gratitude like sunlight. Sunlight doesn’t force anything to grow but simply creates the environment where growth becomes possible. As you know from the last two weeks of me blogging on the topic “Love is a Choice”, choosing gratitude is one of the fastest ways to return to unity because it shifts your focus from the problem to the partnership.

One of the most powerful truths about gratitude is this: You cannot stay in a negative emotional posture while actively giving thanks. Did you know that research shows that gratitude reduces anxiety, increases emotional resilience, and improves relationship satisfaction. Couples who practice thankfulness feel safer, more valued, and more connected. Most fundamental best practices are based on foundational biblical principles. I personally think about 1 Thessalonians 5:18: In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God and Proverbs 18:21: The tongue has the power of life and death

Gratitude doesn’t only impact connection, but it promotes healing and growth because it changes how we see our spouse.
Instead of focusing on what’s missing in our relationship, or what we don’t like about our spouse, we begin to see our spouse and marriage from a Godly perspective. There are a number of benefits to living in gratitude, including:

• Heals emotional wounds

• Softens communication

• Strengthens unity

• Safety invites honesty

• Invites God to be the center of our marriage

• Strengthens emotional connection

• Builds deeper affection

• Helps couples stay grounded in love

• Revives joy and humility

• Honors the beauty God placed in family
  

Now, more than ever, I appreciate the way James smiles and still makes me feel special when I walk into the room. I appreciate hearing his footsteps come down the hallway as well as the joy of waking beside him since it was just three years ago that I almost lost James. My point is that even small, ordinary things should be cherished. Every moment is a gift. James 1:17 says: “Every good and perfect gift is from above.”

This Thanksgiving day, let gratitude be your love language. Be intentional to notice and sharing life with the one you love.

Remember this truth: Affection grows where appreciation flows! Gratitude invites affection, softens conversations, and heightens closeness. Each person can feel seen, valued, and cherished.

Practical Step:
Today, specifically engage your spouse to share one thing you appreciate about them that has nothing to do with chores or tasks — something about their heart. Get in the practice of recognizing at least one behavior daily, big or small, to thank them regularly out loud (not just today).