Gratitude first.
We can compare this verse to a spiritual and emotional key. It shows us that with the right attitude, we can enter the places and opportunities we seek. Attitude makes a difference, and gratitude is not limited to simply making a nice gesture; gratitude is also a tool for personal transformation.
It's important that we begin our days with gratitude, even when what we so desire or hope for doesn't happen, and there are situations that seem slower than normal. But God reminds us that with gratitude, our focus changes, as we focus on the possibilities and the positive. Even when what happens isn't what we expected, we discover a lesson.
We accompany gratitude with praise, and this keeps us connected to God, always remembering what God has done, what He is doing, and what He will continue to do in our lives.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving,
His courts with thanksgiving;
Give Him thanks, bless His name.
Psalm 100:4