Rend Collective members share four habits to maintain gratitude

Jonathan Chu, a member of the Christian rock band Rend Collective, says his practice of gratitude often begins with social interaction. He describes spending time with friends after or during tours to decompress through conversation. These interactions allow him to step back from the routine of travel and work.

Chu notes that tour life can feel repetitive and isolating. He explains that he focuses on specific moments that provide hope, such as meeting a new person or encouraging someone after a show. He states that these brief interactions make him grateful for his work and show that his role extends beyond simply playing music.

The band members also find value in mundane tasks. Chu references the book The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence, a 17th-century monk who found meaning in kitchen work. Chu uses this example to remind himself to be grateful during chores. He also recalls his grandmother telling him that cleaning a dish meant he had a meal to eat that day.

Chris Llewellyn, another member of the group, recommends keeping a gratitude journal to train the brain to notice positive things. He suggests writing down five items each morning. Llewellyn advises against repeating entries to force the mind to look for new blessings. He says this daily appointment helps him stay alert for good things, particularly during difficult seasons.

Stephen Mitchell, the third member of the trio, focuses on a brief pause before performing. He says the band takes a second to breathe and express thanks before walking onstage. Mitchell acknowledges that their careers have involved ups and downs, but the group has become intentional about this pre-show ritual. He says the pause allows them to appreciate the audience and the opportunity to lead people in worship.

The three habits center on awareness. Chu looks for moments of encouragement, Llewellyn records specific blessings in writing, and Mitchell pauses to reflect before a performance. The band members present these as simple actions rather than complex spiritual exercises.

Each member ties their practice to a specific context. Chu connects his gratitude to personal relationships and household chores. Llewellyn ties his method to a daily writing habit that supports mental focus. Mitchell links his routine to the physical act of playing live music.

The group promotes a devotional called A Grateful Life: Thanks in the Hard Places as a way to go deeper into the topic. The 14-day program includes scripture, readings, and prayers designed to help individuals maintain thankfulness during both busy and quiet days.

The band members suggest that gratitude requires active effort. They describe it as a choice made in faith where thanks often precedes the feeling. The practices they share are intended to be accessible in everyday settings like a kitchen or a car.