Are You Thankful?

If there is one single quality that just leaps out from people who think like a Christian, I would say it’s gratitude. You never meet a Christian who thinks like a Christian who does not demonstrate a grateful and gracious spirit.

I haven’t counted this up, but I’d bet the word “thanksgiving” is one of the most repeated words in the Bible. When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, He controls our lives and we see the results Paul talked about in Ephesians:

“... speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” -Ephesians 5:19-20

Contentment is only cultivated through a spirit of thankfulness. The reason these two words—contentment and thankfulness—fit together is that a content heart is always focused and thankful. A Christian who is not thankful is not content.

This is what Scripture tells us in 1 Timothy 6:6:

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

Paul also tells us that contentment is to be learned and that it can be experienced in any circumstances.

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” -Philippians 4:11

The Father has given us everything we need to glorify Him and to bring peace and joy to our hearts. The natural outpouring of our hearts then is singing, praising, and thanking the Father.

What else is there to do but rejoice and give thanks?

The psalmists constantly shout out to us the need to say, “Thank You,” to our Lord.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” -Psalm 136:1

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” -Psalm 118:1

Any Christian who is angry, bitter, or complaining is a Christian who has forgotten the surpassing greatness of God’s infinite love—a love that allows all to see God’s abundant kindness every day and every moment.

In closing, let me say this: We all are in a great fight. The enemy is constantly trying to steal our joy. I have found in my darkest moments that our God resides in the praises of His people.

In the words of Charles Spurgeon, “Wash your face every morning in a bath of praise.”

At your lowest point—when you feel most disconnected—just start thanking God for whatever comes to your mind. Then watch the Holy Spirit renew you in His steadfast love. 

This year, let's resolve to be more thankful.

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