Gratitude practices, like starting your day by writing 3 things you're thankful for, are widely accepted and scientifically proven to impact our lives. From our immunity, mental health, optimism, relationships and much more. See our related post “Gratitude & Science” for more on the science of gratitude!
What Does the Bible Say About Thankfulness?
Science proves that thankfulness is beneficial to our lives. But, what does the Bible say about thankfulness? Practicing gratitude is a Biblical principle. Bible passages about thankfulness can be found throughout scripture. Giving thanks is rooted in God’s Word, and we can apply this truth in our daily lives. Below are 20 Bible verses about thankfulness.
A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones. – Proverbs 15:30 (ESV)
Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. – Ephesians 5:20
The Bible is filled with stories of people expressing gratitude to God during the highest moments of their lives and the lowest, in both the Old and New Testaments. They set an example for us to follow as we navigate all of the ups and downs in our lives.
Why is Being Thankful to God Important?
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. — Psalm 28:7
Scriptures about thankfulness show us that, when we praise God and appreciate what He’s done for us, our heart fill with joy. Spend time reflecting on your life and how God is writing your faith story. He has rescued you from sin and death. He has given you strength, guiding and protecting you. When we thank and praise God for Who He is, we are reminded of how good He has been to us.
Scriptures About Being Thankful for Who God is
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. – 1 Chronicles 16:34
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever. – Psalm 136:1-3
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! – 2 Corinthians 9:15
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. – Colossians 2:6-7
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. – James 1:17
Reminding our hearts and our minds about the truth of Who God is, whether our circumstances are ‘good’ or not, is so important! In these verses, we see men and women of God reminding themselves and each other Who God is.
God is good. He is our strength and shield. God is loving and generous.
Remembering characteristics of God through these bible verses help us to be thankful for who He is.
…be transformed by the renewing of your mind.- Romans 12:2
Bible Verses About Thankfulness in Hard Times
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. – Psalm 23:1-6
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. – 1 Corinthians 15:57
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. – Colossians 3:15
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Going through tough situations is promised in the Bible, but we’re also promised that God will be with us through it all. Despite your circumstances, these Bible verses about practicing gratitude can help renew your mind and re-energize you to face each day with fresh hope!
Related Post: 21 Bible Verses When You Feel Anxious or Worried
Bible Verses About Gratefulness Can Help in Sharing Your Faith
Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. – 1 Chronicles 16:8-9
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father, which is in heaven. – Matthew 5:16
In every way and everywhere we accept this with all gratitude. – Acts 24:3
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. – Colossians 3:17
Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful and thankful. – Colossians 4:2
We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing. – 2 Thessalonians 1:3
Practicing gratitude and being humble can open the door for conversations about your faith! Maybe you’re able to thank someone for the opportunity to speak into their lives, like Paul in Acts 24. By living gratefully, God is able to shine through you to those around you (Matthew 5). In these Bible verses about thankfulness, we can see how others will be impacted by our reliance and love of God.
Related Post: 3 Reasons Why Sharing Your Faith Story Matters
How to Use Bible Verses to Practice Gratitude
We recommend Practicing Gratitude! Here are three practical options:
- Start your day by writing 3 things you’re thankful for and spend 5 minutes thanking God for those things and for Who He is (refer back to the section “Scriptures About Being Thankful for Who God Is”)
- Write out the Bible Verses that stood out to you on a sticky note and read it every day
- Ask a friend or mentor to keep you accountable in being thankful in all circumstances
As you meditate on these Bible verses about gratitude to God and others, we hope your heart leaps with joy!
Conclusion
Our goal is to help everyone take their next step in their relationship with Jesus and we know that these Bible verses about thankfulness can help renew your mind about who God is, give you hope in hard times, and show you that gratefulness & humility can open doors to share your faith with others!
Related Post: How to Be Intentionally Grateful
Author
