July 21: Forget Not All His Benefits

When was the last time you stopped and counted what’s gotten better since you stopped living the old way?

David talks to his own soul here. Praise the Lord, and don’t forget all His benefits. He had to remind himself. It’s a very human thing. We forget fast. Yesterday’s rescue becomes today’s normal, and we start complaining again.

Gratitude and humility are close cousins. Pride says, “I did this.” Gratitude says, “This was given to me.” When you count your blessings honestly, you see how much of your life you didn’t earn. The sober days. The people who stuck around. The second chances.

Early in recovery, it can be hard to feel grateful. A lot still feels broken. Bills are piled up. Relationships are strained. Your body may still be recovering. That’s real. You don’t have to pretend everything’s great.

But look closer. Did you wake up today without a hangover? Do you remember what you said last night? Do you have a little more money than you would have? Has anyone said, “You seem better”? Those are benefits. Don’t forget them.

A gratitude list is one of the oldest tools in recovery. People write down a few things each night that they’re thankful for. It sounds simple. It works because it trains your eyes. After a while, you start noticing good things during the day, because you know you’ll be writing them down.

Gratitude also helps against cravings. It’s hard to feel sorry for yourself and grateful at the same time. When the “poor me” thoughts start, a gratitude list can turn them around.

And when you write your list, include the people. Who helped you get here? Who prayed for you? Who answered the phone at a bad hour? Maybe today is the day you thank one of them.

One thing today

Write down ten things you’re grateful for, before bed. Make at least three of them people. Then thank one of those people this week.

A prayer

Lord, I forget so easily. Thank You for this day, for a clear head, for the people who have helped me. I don’t want to forget all You’ve done. Amen.

Gratitude grows out of the humility that Step Seven asks for.

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