November is often called the month of gratitude, but I’ll be honest—there have been years when I didn’t feel thankful at all. Whether it was health challenges, parenting struggles, marriage stress, or financial worries, the weight of life can make November feel more annoying than inspiring.
Grumpiness can sneak in so easily. When we’re tired, overwhelmed, or worn thin, it starts to take over our attitude—and before long, it spills onto our children, spouse, and everyone around us. So how do we stop the crazy cycle of grumpiness and find gratitude again? Melanie and I have learned a few things through our own seasons of grumpiness.
Understanding the Roots of Grumpiness
Grumpiness usually has a root. Sometimes it’s as simple as unmet needs—like not getting enough rest, skipping meals, or missed time in genuine friendships. Our bodies and emotions are connected. When we don’t take care of ourselves, our emotions start waving a red flag.
The constant stream of news, social media, and comparison can leave our hearts restless and dissatisfied. I’ve found that at the end of my scrolling session, social media tended to leave me more drained than encouraged. Stepping back allowed me to protect my heart from the noise that feeds discontentment.
Seeking God for a Mind Shift
Our attitude often reflects what we believe about God and who we are as His children. When I forget that I am loved and secure in Him, the voices of the world grow louder. Those voices either discourage me or feed my pride—and both leave me grumpy.
The Bible reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 to give thanks in all circumstances. That doesn’t mean ignoring the hard but choosing to see God’s hand even in it. Try keeping a running list of blessings in a prayer journal or on your phone. Meditate on verses that remind you of God’s truth when lies try to take over. And if you haven’t already, listen to the What Lies Are You Believing? podcast episode for encouragement and practical ideas.
When we align our thoughts with who God really is—and who we are in Him—our hearts begin to shift from grumpiness to gratitude. And God proves this to me again and again.
Breaking Negative Patterns with Deliberate Actions
The holidays can like pouring gasoline on relationship tensions. Family gatherings sometimes bring up old hurts or remind us of unresolved conflict. Just the thought of seeing certain people can put a damper on our mood.
Start by asking God to help you see what’s going on in your heart. Ask questions like:
- What part of this do I own?
- What’s true and what’s not about the past?
- What can I release, and where do I need to set healthy boundaries?
We can’t change who’s in our family or how others behave, but we can choose how we respond. Through the Holy Spirit’s power, we can control our words, attitudes, and boundaries. When we focus on what we can change, gratitude naturally grows as we see God working in our hearts.
Choosing Gratitude One Day at a Time
Turning grumpiness into gratitude isn’t a quick fix—it’s a daily process. There will be victories and setbacks. But as we keep inviting the Lord into our attitude, fill our minds with His truth, and focus on our blessings instead of our burdens, He slowly replaces our frustration with peace and thankfulness.
Let’s choose to be women who bring joy into our homes, who let gratitude shape our perspective even in the hard.
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