Since January, the world has been in flux. For some, the unimaginable has happened, and it seems that things are spiraling out of control. Each headline feels heavier than the last, and uncertainty has become our constant companion. It is difficult to follow the news cycle without shaking your head. Sense and sensibility appear to have gone out the proverbial window with no return in sight. One would think that times like these would fuel disappointment, despair, or even outrage—but for me, these unprecedented times have fueled gratitude.
Yes, you read that correctly. As so much seems to be spinning out of control, I have had an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I find myself constantly thinking about what I am grateful for, often feeling the whisper of gratefulness in my heart. These whispers have not always come in moments of quiet but at various points throughout my days—while driving, working, or even running errands, I find gratitude gently rising to the surface.
There are more than 150 scriptures referencing gratitude in the Bible. One of my favorites is 1 Thessalonians 5:18. I have found myself thinking about, meditating on, and reciting this passage more often than ever before. The Apostle Paul commanded the Thessalonians to give thanks even when things were not going as planned. He encouraged them to be grateful in spite of their experiences—not to pretend difficulty was enjoyable, but to trust God through whatever the situation. These timeless words call us to do the same: trust God in all circumstances. In good times and not-so-good times, as children of The Most High God, we are reminded that He has a good plan for each of us (Jeremiah 29:11; Romans 8:28).
Regardless of what we face or feel, we can trust that the Omnipresent One is always with us (Psalm 16:8; Isaiah 41:10). Remembering this can be transformative and change everything. A simple shift in perspective can be life-changing for those who dare to fully place their trust in God. When we remember that God is always with us, we do not need to fear or be frustrated—we can exercise faith and be grateful. We can draw strength from His power which is limitless rather than relying on our own which is finite (Jeremiah 32:17;
Matthew 19:26). We can resist doubt and remember how God has come through for us before (Psalm 77:11–12; Isaiah 46:9–10).
The fact that God does not always act the way we expect does not mean He has failed us. Before the beginning of time, God had a plan for our lives
(Jeremiah 1:5). He always knows exactly what He is doing. Our understanding cannot compare to His eternal perspective (Isaiah 55:8–9). Our all-wise God has divine wisdom; we do not. This truth should comfort us and remind us that something greater is at work (2 Corinthians 4:18; 2 Corinthians 5:7). We are called to exercise confident trust even when we do not understand God’s plan or purpose. Whether things are difficult or pleasant, we must choose to trust God and intentionally live with grateful hearts. Living with gratitude is a sign of deep faith—it reframes our challenging times and transforms our perspective.
Living with a grateful heart changes us and shapes our actions, thoughts, and words. Living with a grateful heart helps us recognize how God is at work in our lives, drawing us closer to Him, strengthening our relationship, and deepening our trust. We become aware of His faithfulness and His promise never to abandon us (Deuteronomy 31:6; Hebrews 13:5). Reflecting on His goodness should stir a profound sense of gratitude within. It increases our ability to see and acknowledge the good in all circumstances. Gratitude enables us to see abundance, not lack; peace, not fear; and contentment, not frustration. It opens our eyes to small blessings—a smile, a sunrise, a moment of rest—that remind us God’s mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).
When we live with grateful hearts, our praise is not reserved for a single holiday on the calendar, celebrated even by those without relationships withThe Father. For children of God with grateful hearts, Thanksgiving becomes a lifestyle. Every day becomes an opportunity to celebrate the goodness of God, to tell others about Him, and to bless others through giving from of the blessings we have received (Psalm 112:5; Luke 6:38). When we live with grateful hearts, praise becomes the signature of our days (Psalm 92:1–2). When we live with grateful hearts, our lives reflect the heart of God—overflowing with gratitude and praise that cannot be silenced by circumstance.
Join me Under The Church Hat for this month’s devotion:
Describe, in less than 250 words, how focusing on gratefulness allowed you to feel God’s presence in challenging times.
List three things you can do to shift your focus from fear or frustration to gratitude and trust in God?
In less than 250 words describe how your gratitude overflows into blessing others through your words, giving, or acts of service?
Write down one thing you are grateful for each day of this month. Keep the list as a reminder of God’s goodness.
Choose a passage from this devotion to mediate on throughout the month.
On my bedroom wall directly in front of my bed is this decal~
Begin Each Day With A Grateful Heart~
It is a constant reminder as God rises me to see a New Day; Gratefulness is to be my experience 🙏🏾