LEADERSHIP MATTERS by Roger A. Yancey, D.Min.
Looking for the perfect New Year’s Resolution? Why not choose to be grateful?
Gratitude is one of the simplest gifts we can give, yet it is often the one we withhold the most. Modern research and biblical wisdom both point to this truth: gratitude strengthens relationships, deepens faith, and transforms our outlook on life.
A study by Adam Grant (Wharton) and Francesca Gino (Harvard) found that a simple line—“Thank you so much! I am really grateful”—doubled a person’s willingness to help again. Meanwhile, a survey of American workers showed that although 80% say gratitude motivates them, only 10% regularly express it.
We crave gratitude. We benefit from gratitude. But we rarely choose gratitude.
The Apostle Paul understood its power deeply. Philippians is one of Paul’s most joy-filled letters, and it contains more than 14 expressions of thankfulness. What makes this remarkable is that Paul wrote it from prison. His circumstances were difficult—but his gratitude was sincere.
Paul understood gratitude Strengthens Relationships. In Philippians 1:3, he warmly shares, “I thank my God every time I remember you.”
Paul tells them he is thankful for their Presence. Simply thinking about the Philippian church brought Paul joy. His relationships were a source of encouragement, not exhaustion. He thanked them for their Partnership. Paul deeply valued their commitment to ministry. They didn’t just cheer from a distance—they served alongside him, gave generously, and supported the work of the gospel. Paul was also excited about their Spiritual Growth. Paul knew that God was working in them and would continue as he reminded them in Philippians 1:6, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” Also, Paul was so grateful for their Support in Hard Times. Even in his imprisonment, they stood with him. Paul reminds us that faithful friends and faithful churches walk with us in both joy and struggle.
This kind of gratitude doesn’t just strengthen relationships—it celebrates them.
Paul had learned from experience Gratitude Transforms How We View Hard Circumstances.
Paul’s chains did not silence his joy. Instead, he wrote in Philippians 1:12, “What has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.” Paul looked at hardship through a gospel lens, and it allowed him to see treasure where others might see only trouble. Because of his imprisonment, we received some of the most foundational letters in the New Testament—Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, and more. God used his confinement to unleash truth that continues to change lives today.
Gratitude didn’t erase his suffering, but it reframed it. Paul recognized Christ was still being preached, God was still at work, deliverance—whether in life or death—was certain, which meant to him, his hope was unshakable. “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21. Gratitude keeps our eyes on God’s purposes, even when circumstances disappoint us.
Paul understood better than most, Gratitude Is a Daily Choice. Why not make it your life choice in 2026?
Executive Director, AMS
