Today’s Scripture
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
The Spiritual Practice of Gratitude
After the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we might feel like we’ve done our due diligence in being grateful. We’ve likely shared our thankfulness over a meal, reflected on the year’s blessings, and counted our own blessings. But if we’re not careful, gratitude can be relegated to a seasonal practice, something that only comes up in November, when the world encourages us to give thanks.
The reality is that gratitude is not meant to be confined to a specific time of year—it is a practice that should permeate our lives every day, shaping how we see the world and engage with God.
Gratitude is more than just a polite “thank you” or a yearly tradition—it’s a heart posture and a perspective we choose. It’s easy to fall into the trap of seeing gratitude as something we say. But words are shallow and hollow when they aren’t backed up by behavior.
When our kids were small, and someone did something for them, it became routine for us to tell them, “Say thank you!” And our kids would parrot back, “Thank you.” Then, once they got the hang of that, we’d use shorthand in those situations with, “What do you say?” And they’d respond, “Thank you.”
They probably didn’t feel thankful all those times, but it was essential for us to ensure they made a habit of expressing gratitude when appropriate. After all, no one knows you’re thankful if you don’t tell them.
As our kids matured, our conversations with them matured also. They began to understand that “thank you” needed to go past their mouths and root into their hearts. Now, our kids are adults, and we no longer have to prompt them to express gratitude. They have become grateful people. Well… most of the time!
True gratitude begins deep within us, and it grows as we practice it.
As believers, we are called to give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18), not just the easy or pleasant ones, because God’s goodness is not dependent on our circumstances. His faithfulness remains steady, even in seasons of struggle. Gratitude, therefore, becomes a powerful means of growing in holiness, as it turns our hearts toward God, reminding us of His constant presence and provision.
Gratitude is a spiritual practice because it also aligns our hearts with God’s will. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Paul clarifies that giving thanks is not optional—it’s God’s will for us.
Gratitude is an act of obedience that invites us to see the good in our lives, even in the midst of difficulty. It helps us focus on God’s goodness rather than our circumstances, and it redirects our hearts away from complaining or discontentment.
True gratitude is about cultivating a mindset that acknowledges God’s hand in everything. While we don’t have to be thankful FOR all circumstances, we can be thankful to God IN all circumstances.
Gratitude changes the way we view our lives and our relationship with God. When we choose gratitude, we are practicing humility. We acknowledge that all we have—our breath, provision, and relationships—is God’s gift. This shifts our focus from self-sufficiency to dependence on Him. We resist the urge to take credit for our lives and start seeing God’s fingerprints on every part of them.
As we move forward from the holiday and “Thanksgiving” season, let’s resist the temptation to let gratitude fade away. Instead, let gratitude become a daily habit that shapes our hearts and minds. Whether we are enjoying the mountaintop moments or walking through valleys, we can always find reasons to give thanks. And in doing so, we align our hearts with God’s will, grow in holiness, and deepen our faith.
Today’s Challenge
Make gratitude a daily practice. Start each day by writing down three things you are thankful for, whether they are big or small. While this may seem simple, it exercises the gratitude muscle, ensuring it doesn’t atrophy. As you go through your day, continue to look for moments to thank God, even in the midst of challenges. Let gratitude shift your perspective and draw you closer to God.
Today’s Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your constant faithfulness. Help me cultivate a grateful heart, not just in the good times but in all circumstances. Teach me to see Your goodness in everything, and help my heart overflow with thankfulness. May this gratitude practice transform my perspective and draw me nearer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
