The aroma of roasted turkey, sweet potatoes, and apple pie filled the Hughes household on Thanksgiving morning.
Ten-year-old Emma woke up excited for the family feast later that day. The Hughes family looked forward to Thanksgiving every year as a time to count their blessings.
As Emma’s mom pulled the turkey out of the oven, Emma set the table with fancy plates and fall-colored napkins.
“What are you thankful for this year?” she asked her dad.
He paused to think for a moment before responding, “I’m grateful for our health, our home, and the laughter that fills it.”
Emma’s family emphasizes gratitude not just during the holidays but all year long.
As followers of Christ, the Hughes always tried to maintain an attitude of gratitude through all circumstances as Scripture encourages.
After the flurry of food and family time later that day, Emma’s mom planned to read some inspirational Bible verses about giving thanks to focus their hearts and minds.
The Bible stories and words always inspired praise and gratefulness in this loving household.
Old Testament Encouragement to Give Daily Thanks
Gratitude begins with an awareness of God’s presence and developing a heart of thanksgiving.
The Old Testament provides beautiful examples of giving thanks in everyday life.
“1 It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; 2 to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night.”
Psalm 92:1-2 (ESV)
biblegateway.com
Psalm 92 begins by proclaiming the goodness of giving thanks and praising God’s name daily. The psalmist expresses his intent to declare God’s love in the morning and faithfulness in the evening.
Making thanksgiving a consistent practice keeps your focus on the Lord and His provision.
The next verse gives us insight into how the Israelites worshipped God with gratitude:
“3 To the music of the lute and the harp, to the melody of the lyre. 4 For you, O Lord, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy.”
Psalm 92:3-4(ESV)
biblegateway.com
Singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to musical instruments is a way to rejoice and give thanks to God. As you reflect on His wondrous works, you’ll be filled with gladness and joy.
Giving thanks was also an integral part of Old Testament worship through sacrifices:
11 “And this is the law of the sacrifice of peace offerings that one may offer to the Lord. 12 If he offers it for a thanksgiving, then he shall offer with the thanksgiving sacrifice unleavened loaves mixed with oil, unleavened wafers smeared with oil, and loaves of fine flour well mixed with oil.”
Leviticus 7:11-12 (ESV)
biblegateway.com
“Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High.”
Psalm 50:14 (ESV)
biblegateway.com
“The one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies me; to one who orders his way rightly I will show the salvation of God! ”
Psalm 50:23 (ESV)
biblegateway.com
These verses reveal how the Israelites honored God through thanksgiving sacrifices. As you come to God with gratitude, you’ll receive His acceptance, help, and salvation.
Cultivating an attitude of praise brings blessings and favor. God is pleased when you thank Him for Who He is and all He has done for you.
Bibles Verses About Gratitude From The Book of Psalms
The Book of Psalms contains songs of praise and thanksgiving that inspire profound gratitude. These timeless hymns proclaim God’s goodness and remind us to thank Him.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”
Psalm 107:1 (NIV)
biblegateway.com
This oft-quoted verse is a resounding call to thank the Lord for His eternal, unfailing love towards us.
No matter what happens, you can trust His steadfast love and offer your thanks.
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!”
Psalm 100:4 (ESV)
biblegateway.com
As you enter God’s presence, thanksgiving and praise prepare your heart to receive His blessings.
Thanking God and blessing His name should be your continual response to His goodness.
“8 Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! 9 For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.”
Psalm 107:8-9 (ESV)
biblegateway.com
The Psalmist echoes our need to thank God for His love and deeds. He satisfies your deepest longings and fills the hungry soul.
Even in times of need, God provides good things when you look to Him with gratitude.
The Psalms are filled with verses extolling the wonders of God and calling us to thanksgiving.
Setting aside time daily to offer Him praise keeps your perspective aligned with truth.
New Testament Instructions on Giving Thanks
The New Testament gives further instructions on living a lifestyle of gratitude. Jesus’ followers are encouraged to rejoice, pray, and give thanks in all situations.
“16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)
biblegateway.com
This passage reveals that thankfulness is not dependent on circumstances. Rather, it flows from the joy of salvation you have through Christ.
Giving thanks is God’s will as it draws your gaze to Him. As you bring your requests to God with thanksgiving, His peace will guard your heart and mind in Christ.
“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 (NIV)
biblegateway.com
We live in unity as members of Christ’s body. Thankfulness leads you into the peace of God that surpasses understanding.
“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 (NIV)
biblegateway.com
This verse reminds us to honor Christ in everything we do and say. You can continually give thanks to the Father through the gift of His Son.
“We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.”
Colossians 1:3 (NIV)
biblegateway.com
As Christians, we are called to pray for one another. Paul often expressed thanksgiving to God for fellow believers. Gratitude fuels your prayers.
Thanksgiving as Public Proclamation of God’s Goodness
The Psalms frequently speak of thanking God publicly and sharing testimony of His goodness. We honor Him when we proclaim stories of His faithfulness.
“I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.”
Psalm 9:1 (ESV)
biblegateway.com
This verse conveys the psalmist’s wholehearted praise and commitment to telling of God’s miraculous acts.
Your gratitude glorifies Him when it comes from genuine devotion.
“Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!”
Psalm 105:1 (ESV)
biblegateway.com
We are called to make God’s wondrous works known among all people. Thanksgiving stirs others to seek Him when they hear of His mighty acts.
As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, share stories of God’s blessings and the miracles you have witnessed this past year.
Your expressions of gratitude will be a light to those around you.
8 Inspiring Thanksgiving Bible Verses
Here are some of the most inspirational Bible verses for cultivating gratitude on Thanksgiving and every day:
- “Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!” (Psalm 100:4)
- “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
- “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!” (Psalm 107:1)
- “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” (Psalm 136:1)
- “I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.” (Psalm 9:1)
- “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
- “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)
- “Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!” (Psalm 105:1)
Cultivating Gratitude This Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving presents a wonderful opportunity to grow in gratitude and focus your mind on the blessings God has given you.
Here are some ideas for cultivating thankfulness on this special holiday:
- Start a gratitude journal: Writing down the gifts you’re grateful for each day keeps them fresh in your mind.
- Share around the table: Have everyone name a few things they are grateful for this past year.
- Give thanks in prayer: Offer a prayer of blessing over your meal, praising God for His provision.
- Read Thanksgiving scriptures: Let these verses turn your eyes to the Lord and His faithfulness.
- Donate to charity: Giving back is a way to express gratitude for what you’ve been given.
- Send thank-you notes: Send notes to loved ones of how they have blessed your life.
- Sing worship songs: Sing praise songs together, straight from thankful hearts!
The more you cultivate thankfulness, the more blessings your eyes are opened to see. God’s Word reminds us of how integral gratitude is in the life of faith.
This Thanksgiving, allow these verses to inspire profound thankfulness in your heart.
Give praise to God for His unfailing love and the gift of Jesus Christ. Share your reasons for gratitude with those around you.
Key Takeaways on Thanksgiving Bible Verses
- The Old Testament shows the importance of daily gratitude through morning and evening thanksgiving sacrifices.
- Psalms highlight giving thanks to God for His love, salvation, and many blessings.
- Jesus calls us to rejoice, pray, and give thanks in all circumstances as this is God’s will.
- You honor God when you publicly share testimonies of His goodness and wonderful deeds.
- Cultivating an attitude of gratitude opens your eyes to see and appreciate the blessings God has given you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why is giving thanks so important to God?
A. Giving thanks is important because it honors God as the Giver of all good gifts (James 1:17). It is an expression of your dependency on Him and recognition of His love and faithfulness.
Q. How can I develop a more grateful heart?
A. Some ways to cultivate gratitude include keeping a journal, praying prayers of thanksgiving, singing worship songs, meditating on Bible verses, and sharing your blessings with others.
Q. Is it possible to give thanks in hard times?
A. Yes, God calls us to give thanks in all circumstances, not just when life is easy. Even in trials, you can thank God that He is in control and will work all things for your good (Romans 8:28).
Q. When should I give thanks to God?
A. You can express gratitude to God at any time and for everything! Giving thanks in all situations – throughout the day and in response to both blessings and trials – is God’s will for our lives.
Q. Why are Psalms such an inspiration for giving thanks?
A. The Book of Psalms powerfully expresses thanksgiving and praise. The psalmists give thanks to God for His love, faithfulness, salvation, and abundant blessings. These worship songs will stir your heart to praise.
Giving thanks to God is a privilege and joy. This Thanksgiving, allow His Word to inspire profound gratitude in your heart.
Share your reasons for thankfulness with loved ones as you reflect on God’s goodness. He is worthy of our continual praise!
