“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
— Colossians 3:17 (NIV)
Gratitude is powerful. It awakens us to contentment, joy, peace, and hope. When we intentionally say “thank you” to God—whether in prayer, worship, or conversation—we’re deepening our trust in His goodness.
By actively counting our blessings, we fight against the pull of consumerism, materialism, frustration, and resentment. Gratitude re-centers our hearts on what truly matters.
Author Alice Walker once wrote, “‘Thank you’ is the best prayer that anyone could say. I say that one a lot. ‘Thank you’ expresses extreme gratitude, humility, and understanding.”
And isn’t that what we all need more of? A posture of humility. A heart that sees beyond what’s missing to what’s already here.
Of course, that’s easier said than done. We all carry unfulfilled desires, face real challenges, and bear heartaches that still need healing. Our time, energy, and resources often feel stretched thin. There are likely areas in your life you wish were different—you’re not alone in that.
Yet when we choose gratitude, something shifts. Gratitude gives us strength for the struggle, patience for the process, and joy that perseveres through pain. It turns ordinary moments into sacred ones.
Gratitude is a choice—and it’s one you can make today and every day. Scripture reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 to “give thanks in all circumstances,” not because every situation is easy or pleasant, but because God is always good, always faithful, and always with us.
For those of us in the United States, Thanksgiving is just around the corner—a time filled with hosting, laughter, delicious food (turkey or tofurky), the Thanksgiving Day Parade, and maybe the long-awaited moment you finally cue up that Christmas playlist. But most importantly, it’s a time to pause and give thanks—truly, deeply, intentionally.
As this Thanksgiving approaches, I pray that your heart overflows with gratitude. May you carve out time to thank God for who He is and all He’s given you. No matter your circumstances, there’s always something—someone—to thank Him for.
And as you do, may you be reminded of how wonderfully good our God is to you, how steadfast His love remains, and how faithfully He keeps His promises.