Practicing Gratitude in Ghana: A Missionary’s Story

As we sat in our yard, sipping tea and watching the villagers pass by, my wife Laura would often gather the kids and lead them in songs. “Jesus Loves Me” echoed across the field, and the kids would sit on the grass, listening intently as she opened the Bible and gave them a short lesson. One particular afternoon stands out in my memory, where I happened to glance up into the branches above me and saw a dove perched there, just a few feet away. It was so calm, just sitting on that limb, its feathers puffed out and its head bobbing slightly as its eyes closed and opened slowly. I could not stop watching it, mesmerized by its stillness.

Gratitude in the Ghanaian Dirt

As we lived in Ghana, we learned to appreciate the beauty in the everyday moments. We would sit in our yard, watching the villagers pass by, and see the world from a different perspective. It was a chance to slow down, appreciate the simple things, and connect with the people around us. But, as I sat there, I couldn’t help but think about the dangers that lurked in the shadows. The green mamba, a venomous snake, had struck the dove with precision, and I had to act quickly to stop it. It was a sobering reminder of how quickly things can change and how important it is to stay vigilant.

The Power of Gratitude in Mission Work

Gratitude is not just a feeling, but a practice that can transform our lives. As missionaries, we have the opportunity to experience the beauty of different cultures and connect with people from all walks of life. But, it’s easy to get caught up in the challenges and difficulties of mission work. That’s why it’s essential to cultivate a spirit of gratitude. By focusing on the good things, I can overcome obstacles, build stronger relationships, and find joy in the midst of uncertainty.

As we navigated the complexities of mission work, we learned to appreciate the small things. A cup of tea shared with a villager, a child’s laughter, or a beautiful sunset could bring me joy and perspective. We realized that gratitude is not just about being thankful, but about being present in the moment. It’s about recognizing the beauty in the everyday and finding ways to share that beauty with others.

Practicing Gratitude in the Mission Field

So, how can we practice gratitude in the mission field? Here are a few practical tips:

• Take time to appreciate the small things. A beautiful sunset, a delicious meal, or a kind word from a villager can bring joy and perspective.

“83% of missionaries report that gratitude has a positive impact on their mental health.” International Mission Board

• Focus on the good things. Rather than dwelling on the challenges, try to find the silver lining.
• Share gratitude with others. Expressing thanks to a villager or a team member can build stronger relationships and create a sense of community.
• Practice mindfulness. Being present in the moment can help me appreciate the beauty in the everyday.

Gratitude and the Enemy

As I sat under the almond tree, watching the snake slither away, I was reminded of the enemy’s tactics. He seeks to strike when I am most at peace, most distracted, or most confident. But, I am not defenseless. I have the power of gratitude on my side. By staying close to the Lord, walking in the Spirit, and being vigilant, I can overcome the enemy’s attacks.

As we navigated the challenges of mission work, we realized that gratitude is not just a feeling, but a practice that can transform our lives. By focusing on the good things, I can overcome obstacles, build stronger relationships, and find joy in the midst of uncertainty.

Conclusion

Gratitude is a powerful tool in the mission field. By practicing gratitude, I can overcome obstacles, build stronger relationships, and find joy in the midst of uncertainty. As we sat in our yard, watching the villagers pass by, we learned to appreciate the beauty in the everyday moments. We realized that gratitude is not just about being thankful, but about being present in the moment. It’s about recognizing the beauty in the everyday and finding ways to share that beauty with others.

As we return to the mission field, we are reminded of the importance of gratitude. I will continue to practice gratitude, to appreciate the small things, and to share gratitude with others. I will stay close to the Lord, walk in the Spirit, and be vigilant, knowing that gratitude is a powerful tool in the fight against the enemy.

For more resources on gratitude and mission work, visit our blog or check out our book on missionary life.

Read more about the power of gratitude in mission work and how it can transform your life on our prayer letters page.

For more information on the International Mission Board, visit their website at imb.org.

Remember, gratitude is a choice. I choose to practice gratitude today and see the impact it can have on my life and the lives of those around me.

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