Growing in Gratitude

Jani Ortlund

Growing in Gratitude is a must read for anyone who has ever doubted, suffered or just plain coasted in life. Starting in the Garden of Eden and continuing throughout the whole span of Scripture, Mary Mohler invites us to embrace the big-dealness of gratitude for those who know Christ. In straightforward, yet deeply penetrating ways, Mary opens the theological doorway to a grateful heart as graciously as she has opened the door of her home to thousands throughout her years of ministry. With perceptive illustrations, she skillfully wins us over until we are “abounding in thanksgiving” (Colossians 2:7) in happy obedience to God’s Word. This book would be a treasure if only for the truth found in her list of “Ten Ways to Thank the Lord When it Hurts.” But read the whole thing! Both your head and your heart will be lifted up into new paths of gratitude.

Linda Allcock

Growing in Gratitude gives fresh and carefully applied insights into a familiar topic. The up-to-date observations (e.g. the impact smartphones are having on our social interactions) coupled with well explained quotes from historic giants in the faith make this a very helpful and timely reminder that we have every reason to be thankful.

It was a real joy to listen to Mary's wisdom from years of learning thankfulness. There is helpful application throughout and I loved the fact that she encouraged us to stop and pray, putting into action what we're learning. Each chapter has just two study questions at the end – a valuable and manageable tool to help us think further, or study with friends. I found Mary's chapters on hindrances to gratitude fresh and insightful. I have been challenged by her shrewd observations, and genuinely can say this book has helped me to be growing in gratitude.

“A much needed book!”

I really loved this small book of wisdom and encouragement. Seriously, only 103 pages- this book is jammed with so much encouragement on the theme of thankfulness and gratitude.

Is this book you will find reasons to be grateful in seasons of doubt, pain and suffering and even those moments you wish life would be different. The author, Mary, really encourages you to look at scripture and believe that Jesus is our strength, when we are weak. And that he will provide moments of thankfulness, when when we can’t see a way out.

I really loved her analogy of a throne on a rose.
“Roses are among the most beautiful and fragrant. We have no problem thanking the Lord for the beauty of every rose he allows us to enjoy, each one delicately created by our Creator in vibrant color. Yet I cannot recall even one time when I thanked the Lord for placing sharp thorns along the stems of those beautiful flowers, and I'm guessing you can't either. There is nothing beautiful about those thorns. yet they are not there by accident. God chose to place them there-probably to protect the blooms from animals who may want to eat them.”

This will be a book I pass on and recommend to everyone!