Giving Thanks

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." --1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Gratitude is a huge part of living intentionally for the Lord. When we have hearts full of gratitude, then God is being honored, praised, and recognized for the goodness of His character. This is especially challenging when things do not always go our way.


Today, things did not go my way. I had prayed for a certain outcome, and the opposite happened. My natural, immediate reactions were frustration, hurt, and grumbling. I look back now and see the error in my ways. I was reacting in a selfish, distrusting way. I was not saying, "Lord, You are God, holy and just. Thank you for always doing what is best for me. I trust you with my life and I trust in your character, which is good and worthy of praise." This is why I need to be more intentional in giving thanks in all circumstances.

I found this journal (see picture) at a Family Christian bookstore. I aim to write in it daily the thanks I have for the Lord. I pray that we would all have hearts full of gratitude, "For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100:5









Colossians 3:15-17

15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 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.