Brothers and sisters: I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in prayer with joy, thankful for your partnership in the Gospel from the first day until now.

Philippians 1:3-5

Paul thanks God for the Philippians. He says something so beautiful: every time he thinks about them, every time their names are mentioned or they come to mind, he smiles and thanks God for his relationship with them. As he experiences gratitude for the Philippians, he is also filled with joy. Paul reminds us that gratitude and joy, gratitude and happiness, go together.

Are there any people in your life who give you the same reaction? They have been such a blessing in your life that every time you think of them, just the thought of them brings a smile to your face.  Just their presence encourages you.

Thank God for whoever brings a smile to your face when you think of them. After your prayer, write an e-mail, a text, or an actual letter to let him or her know about your prayer of gratitude.