I’m really big on giving thanks because it still amazes me that something so “basic” can be such a powerful spiritual resource. Giving thanks is a sure thing when it comes to being in God’s will and pleasing Him. No guesswork. It’s always a direct hit. Starting my day with it feels like getting the first score of the game – a leadoff homer, a touchdown on the first play. It sets the tone and tells my soul, “We’re starting this day with blessed God‑awareness.”
Over the years, I’ve also noticed something: thanksgiving and gratitude aren’t the same. Thanksgiving is something I do – an act of the will. Gratitude is something I am – a disposition of the heart. Giving thanks is how I feed my heart what it needs so it can actually be grateful. It’s the practice that nourishes the posture.
Scripture tells us that giving thanks is more pleasing to God than an ox or a bull with its horns and hooves (Psalm 69:13) – more pleasing than the “big” spiritual things we think we’re supposed to be doing. So thank You, Lord, for my life just as it is right now, and for how You are building my relationship with You through every condition touching my life.
Even in the midst of my unresolved matters, I am still living in Your love and faithfulness right now. You lead me beside still waters. You guide me in paths of righteousness. You walk with me through the valley of the shadow. And Your goodness and mercy are following me – covering my “6,” as they say in the military. You’ve surrounded me with Your care. And may this simple act of thanksgiving create in me overflowing gratitude as I walk with You today.
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