When You’re in the Deepest Valley, Gratitude Can Become the First Step Out
If you’re grieving right now, this post is for you.
The weight of loss can feel like too much to bear. The idea of gratitude—let alone joy—can feel impossible. And yet, Scripture tells us that we can give thanks even here, in the shadow of pain.
This blog was inspired by insights shared in my latest YouTube video.
If you’re interested in diving deeper into this topic, you can watch the full video here.
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Let’s walk gently together through the truths that can carry you from grief to gratitude—not by ignoring the pain, but by honoring it and allowing faith to anchor your healing.
1. Grief Is Not a Lack of Faith—It’s the First Step Toward Healing
“There is a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.” — Ecclesiastes 3:4
Grief is the body’s and soul’s honest response to loss. It’s not a spiritual failure—it’s a doorway to healing. By acknowledging your pain, you invite God into the places that hurt. And that’s where transformation begins.
Give yourself permission to:
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Cry without shame
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Feel every emotion, even anger or numbness
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Rest in God’s presence without needing to “fix” anything
2. Start Small: Practice Gratitude in Tiny, Honest Ways
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
You don’t have to be grateful for the loss. But you can begin to notice small glimmers of goodness around you. These moments do not cancel your sorrow—they coexist with it, giving you strength for the day.
Try this:
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Write down one thing each morning you’re thankful for
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Take a gratitude walk and name aloud what you see and appreciate
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Speak a short prayer: “Thank You for breath today.”
3. Remember: Gratitude and Faith Are Intertwined
“Every good and perfect gift is from above…” — James 1:17
When you start seeing even small things as gifts from God—a kind word, a warm blanket, a memory—you begin to remember who your Provider is. Gratitude reminds your heart that you are still held, still seen, still loved.
4. Gratitude Reduces Anxiety and Restores Peace
“…with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts…” — Philippians 4:6–7
In the middle of emotional storms, gratitude can be a lifeline. It redirects your mind away from fear and into trust. Science supports this too—studies show that practicing gratitude reduces anxiety, increases hope, and improves sleep.
Create a simple gratitude habit:
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End your day by naming 3 good things, no matter how small
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Say a “thank you” prayer before meals—not just out of tradition, but as a spiritual reset
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Keep a gratitude jar or journal by your bed
5. Let Gratitude Lead You Into a New Purpose
“For I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you a future and a hope.” — Jeremiah 29:11
Grief doesn’t erase your calling. But it often reshapes it.
When you choose gratitude, you slowly begin to see how your life—even in loss—still carries purpose. You might rebuild relationships, create something meaningful, or walk alongside someone else in pain.
Let God show you:
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New passions or paths to explore
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Ways to serve or connect with others
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How your story might offer healing to someone else
6. You’re Not Alone—God and Community Are Walking With You
“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.” — Psalm 126:5
This journey from grief to gratitude is not a straight line. Some days will still ache. But as you continue, you’ll find that you’re not alone.
Lean into:
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God’s unshakable presence
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Scripture as a source of comfort and truth
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Faith communities or grief support groups
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Others who understand the weight you carry
Next Steps: Take One Gentle Step Forward Today
You don’t have to “get over” your grief. But you can begin to walk through it—with gratitude as your guide.
Your healing matters. Your story matters. And you are not walking this road alone.
✨ Call to Action
If this post resonated with you, I invite you to take the next step in your healing journey:
📥 Download your free copy of Sources of Hope: Simple Truths for Hard Days
It’s my gift to you—filled with practical encouragement and God’s truth to anchor your heart.
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