November is infamously known as “the month of thanksgiving.” Yes, this is most likely attributed to the fact that the holiday occurs this month. Family and friends gather around the table and voice a few things they’re thankful for on this day.
Why spend a mere thirty days pondering on the things we’re thankful for?
Here are some beautiful verses from Scripture that will not only help us feel thankful but also help us grow lives of gratitude.
1. Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Feeling anxious is one of the biggest areas that keep us from living lives of gratitude. The more we dwell on troublesome times, the less we grow gratitude in our hearts. This verse encourages us to give our troubles to God. Give Him the worry and thank Him for the blessings already around you.
2. I Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
It’s often difficult for us to give thanks when we’re in the middle of trials. There are times when the world seems hopeless. But take heart my friends. We are encouraged to give thanks in all circumstances. Paul encourages us here to rejoice, pray, and give thanks. Giving thanks is a practice. The more we ponder on our blessings, the more we praise and thank Him.
3. Psalm 107:1
“Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”
The Lord is mighty and full of wondrous deeds to His people. His steadfast love does endure forever!
4. Colossians 3:17
“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
The smallest act is an act of worship to the Lord.
- Making a meal
- scrubbing floors
- rocking babies/changing diapers
- reading to the elderly
- Singing
- Laughing
- Praying
- And endless others…
Whatever we do, may we do in Jesus’ name with a thankful heart and life.
5. Psalm 69:30
“I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving.”
I love the Psalms. They’re filled with prayers for every occasion. Many psalms consist of aching hearts, tired and worn. And yet, through the sorrow, God receives praise and thanksgiving.
May we give thanks in the trials and triumphs, in the calm and in the storm. God’s steadfast love endures forever!
-Danielle