What Does the Bible Say About Being Thankful?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary is a devoted Bible student who loves sharing her knowledge, inspiring others with faith-filled insights, and deepening spiritual understanding through writing.

Life is filled with ups and downs, joys and challenges, victories and struggles.

Through it all, the Bible teaches that thankfulness is essential.

But being thankful isn’t always easy.

Sometimes, gratitude flows naturally when things are going well.

Other times, it feels impossible when life is difficult.

So what does the Bible say about thankfulness?

Is it just about saying “thank you,” or is there a deeper spiritual significance?

Let’s explore what Scripture teaches about gratitude and how we can cultivate a thankful heart in every season of life.

Thankfulness Is God’s Will

The Bible is clear—thankfulness is not just a suggestion, it is God’s will.

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

Notice that it says in all circumstances, not just the good ones.

God desires His people to have hearts that overflow with gratitude, no matter what life brings.

Being thankful is more than a response to good things—it is a mindset, a way of living that acknowledges God’s goodness at all times.

Even when things go wrong, a thankful heart reminds us that God is still in control.

The Power of Gratitude

Thankfulness has a way of transforming our outlook.

It shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have.

From worry to trust.

From bitterness to joy.

Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”

A thankful heart is a joyful heart, and joy brings life and healing.

Science even supports this truth—studies show that gratitude improves mental health, reduces stress, and increases happiness.

God designed us to thrive when we cultivate gratitude.

When we choose thankfulness, we step into His peace and strength.

Giving Thanks in Difficult Times

It’s easy to be thankful when life is going well.

But what about when things fall apart?

The Bible teaches that gratitude should not be based on our circumstances.

Habakkuk 3:17-18 offers a powerful example:

“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”

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This passage shows thankfulness that is not dependent on outward blessings.

Even in hardship, the prophet chooses to rejoice in God.

Why?

Because God is still good, even when life is hard.

When we learn to thank God in the storm, we find strength that goes beyond our circumstances.

Jesus Set the Example of Thankfulness

Jesus lived a life of gratitude.

Even in the face of suffering, He gave thanks.

One of the most powerful moments of thankfulness in Jesus’ life happened at the Last Supper.

Luke 22:19 says, “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.’”

Think about that.

Jesus gave thanks before He went to the cross.

He knew the suffering that was coming, yet He still expressed gratitude.

His example teaches us that thankfulness is not about convenience.

It is a choice, even in difficult moments.

If Jesus could be thankful before facing the cross, we can be thankful in the challenges we face.

Thankfulness and Prayer

Gratitude and prayer go hand in hand.

Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

When we bring our needs to God, we should also bring our thanks.

Why?

Because thankfulness reminds us of who God is.

It shifts our focus from our problems to His power.

Instead of just asking for things, we remember what He has already done.

A thankful prayer is a powerful prayer.

It strengthens faith, brings peace, and opens the heart to receive even more of God’s blessings.

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Gratitude and Contentment

A thankful heart leads to contentment.

1 Timothy 6:6 says, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

In a world that constantly tells us we need more—more success, more money, more possessions—contentment is a rare gift.

But when we practice gratitude, we learn to appreciate what we already have.

Instead of chasing after things that never satisfy, we find joy in what God has already provided.

Hebrews 13:5 reminds us, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”

True contentment comes from knowing that God is enough.

When we live with gratitude, we discover the peace that comes from trusting Him completely.

Thankfulness Brings Blessings

Gratitude does not just change our attitude—it invites more of God’s blessings into our lives.

Psalm 100:4 says, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”

Thankfulness is like a key that opens the door to God’s presence.

When we approach Him with gratitude, we experience more of His love, joy, and peace.

Luke 17 tells the story of ten lepers who were healed by Jesus.

But only one of them returned to give thanks.

Jesus responded, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?” (Luke 17:17).

The thankful man received not just physical healing, but a deeper blessing—his faith was strengthened.

This story reminds us that thankfulness deepens our relationship with God.

When we recognize His goodness, we draw closer to Him.

Expressing Gratitude to Others

Thankfulness is not just about our relationship with God.

It should also shape how we treat others.

Colossians 3:15-16 says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

A thankful heart is a kind heart.

When we appreciate what God has given us, we are more generous toward others.

Expressing gratitude—whether through words, actions, or simple kindness—strengthens relationships.

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Saying “thank you” may seem small, but it can have a big impact.

When we make thankfulness a habit, it creates a culture of love and encouragement.

Cultivating a Thankful Heart

So how can we grow in gratitude?

The Bible gives practical steps to develop a thankful spirit.

One way is through daily reminders.

Psalm 92:1-2 says, “It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night.”

Starting and ending the day with gratitude helps shape our mindset.

Another way is by keeping a gratitude journal.

Writing down blessings each day keeps our focus on God’s goodness.

Even in hard times, there is always something to be thankful for.

Finally, surrounding ourselves with thankful people helps.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 encourages, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

When we spend time with people who practice gratitude, it inspires us to do the same.

Final Thoughts

The Bible is filled with encouragement to be thankful in all circumstances.

Gratitude is not just a feeling—it is a choice, a way of living that honors God.

When we choose thankfulness, we shift our focus from problems to blessings.

We experience joy, peace, and a deeper connection with God.

Even in difficult times, we can trust that God is working for our good.

A thankful heart is a powerful heart, full of faith, love, and hope.

So today, take a moment to thank God for His blessings.

Big or small, every good gift comes from Him.

And as you practice gratitude, you will discover that thankfulness truly changes everything.