The Practice of Being Thankful
As we enter this season of thankfulness, it’s a reminder that gratitude is more than a feeling—it’s a spiritual practice that shapes our hearts and deepens our faith. Biblical gratitude goes far beyond saying “thank you.” It is the intentional act of recognizing God’s goodness in every part of our lives and responding to Him with praise, trust, and obedience.
Gratitude begins on the inside. It starts with an inner awareness that every good thing comes from God. When we slow down long enough to see His hand at work—His provision, His patience, His protection—our hearts naturally rise in thanksgiving. This is why Scripture continually invites us to take our eyes off our circumstances and place them on the faithfulness of God.
But biblical gratitude doesn’t stop at inward reflection. It works its way outward. We express thankfulness through worship, singing, prayer, and declaring God’s goodness. This is why Psalm 100:4 calls us to “enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.” Gratitude ushers us into the presence of God.
One of the most powerful expressions of gratitude is service. When we serve others, give generously, or show kindness, we are living out our thankfulness for all God has done. Scripture gives us a beautiful picture of this in the story of the ten lepers—only one returned to thank Jesus. That one act of gratitude became part of his testimony. Mary Magdalene expressed her gratitude by following and serving Jesus with her life. Gratitude moves us to action.
Gratitude also gives us joy—not only in seasons of blessing but in seasons of difficulty. Because biblical gratitude is not rooted in what we feel, but in who God is. Even when life feels uncertain or challenging, God remains true. His character never shifts. His presence never leaves. His goodness never stops. So we can give thanks in all circumstances, just as 1 Thessalonians 5:18 encourages us.
As we move deeper into this season, let’s pause and recognize God’s goodness all around us. Let gratitude rise—not only in our thoughts, but in our words, our worship, and our actions.
