As Thanksgiving Day approaches, it’s common to check for an attitude of gratitude. It’s an uplifting mindset. But it’s not always an easy emotion. We may be thankful for some aspects of our lives and feel conflicted about other areas. But the bible says, “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT).

Years ago, when I first read this verse, “all” felt awkward. Some situations are far from forming a “thank you” from my lips. But this verse refers to a unique type of gratitude. It’s not driven by circumstances. It forms through faith in Christ. His redemption makes a difference in every situation.

Then our gratitude is our acknowledgement of God’s sovereignty, faithfulness, and love. (Psalm 136:1-9) Otherwise, being thankful only makes sense when life makes sense from my point of view. And yet, counting our blessings counts in more ways than we can imagine.

If 1 Thessalonians 5:18 required us to be thankful for all things, we might grow embittered by life’s pain. But being thankful in all things requires us to grow in the grace we have in Christ. He offers His strength in our weakness and His solutions for our problems.

How do you count your blessings? Maybe you flash a smile as they come to mind. Perhaps you jot them down in a journal. But if a circumstance is challenging your faith, growing in gratitude is a process for us all. It’s no surprise our thankfulness rises when all things are going well. But gratitude is just as important when all things look bleak.

This is not a praise for what’s painful. And yet, a sacrificial praise thanks God for His goodness when life is not good. Such praise is precious to Him. He bottles our tears and assures us of His presence. (Psalm 56:8-9)

Hence, being thankful for the smallest of blessings plants a seed of faith in the soul. From taking our next breath to saying our next prayer, having an attitude of gratitude can become a way of life.

As I count my blessings, my health, my family and friends surely make the list. Yet, I’m learning that being thankful in all circumstances allows me to celebrate the sweetest of blessings as well as release any heaviness in my heart.

No wonder it’s God’s will for those who belong to Christ. Through Him our souls are saved. (Romans 10:9-10) In Him, our prayers are heard. (1 John 5:13-14) By Him, we can count on God to keep His promises. (2 Corinthians 1:20)

PRAYER: Dear God, At this moment, I’m most grateful for _______________________. Thank You for everything You’ve given me through Christ. From my next breath to my next prayer, You deserve all of my praise. In every circumstance, may I grow in Your grace and in my gratitude. In Jesus’ name, amen.

JOY TO THE SOUL: “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT)