Why does gratitude matter to God? Gratitude is deeper than just giving thanks.
James 1: 17 says Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
Gratitude is about a posture of the heart, acknowledging from whom our blessings come.
As a Christian, it is also about understanding that even during the darkest hour, we can be grateful that we are not alone. God is always present, always by our side, and always sees us.
As we dive into November and the month of Thanksgiving, here are ten verses for you to reflect on.
1 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.
Philippians 4: 6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Psalm 100:4
Enter his gates with Thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
Colossians 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Colossians 2: 6-7
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
Psalm 107: 1
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!
Hebrews 12: 28
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.
Jonah 2:9
But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, ‘Salvation come from the LORD.’
Psalm 7:17
I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness; I will sing praises of the name of the LORD Most High.
Luke 22:19
And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”
Melissa Meyers is co-editor of The Stir, wife to John, and mother to Malcolm (20) and Emily (17). She is a Neonatal Nurse and Creative Writer, who is always looking for ways to communicate God’s truth through stories. She is the author of, Beneath the Ancient Dust: Inspirational Stories from Nine Years in Afghanistan and The Snow Trillium. Her hobbies are drinking coffee, reading, and taking long walks. She will accept an invitation for coffee anytime and loves to hear how God is working in your life.