Attitude of Gratitude

In the spirit of my OneWord for 2012 a friend shared a video documentary reflecting the power of gratitude, called 365 Grateful.

Recently I read that every time we thank another person, we cause that person to like themselves better. It raises their self-esteem, improves their self-image, they feel valuable and worthwhile.  Every time we say thank you, we even feel encouraged.




Gratitude is not only important in human relationships, it’s also important in our relationship with God. David, the Psalmist, knew this. He took note of the wonderful things that God did, and continually expressed appreciation for them. David said, “Let us thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of men! And let us offer sacrifices of thanksgiving, and tell of his deeds in songs of joy! (Psalm 107:21-22)

“you-ward” that you give thanks in every circumstance. You see, when you boil it right down, thanksgiving is not so much for his benefit as it is for ours. It changes us. It helps us stay focused on God and his grace and goodness and the exceedingly abundant riches we have in Jesus. It helps us remain mindful of him, and to live our lives aright. And in the end, that’s what honors him the most. A life of thankfulness reflects the glory of God. So let’s make a point to have an attitude of gratitude. Like David, let’s resolve: “I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart: I will recount all of your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and exult in you . . . O Most High.” (Psalm 9:1-2)






The biblical word for thanksgiving is the Greek “eucharistos.” Some church traditions use this as the name for the Lord’s supper–the Eucharist. Eucharistos means “mindful of favors,” “conscious of benefit received,” “grateful,” or simply “thankful.” Giving thanks goes way beyond praying before we eat our food. According to Scripture, it’s one of the very basic disciplines of the Christian life. The Bible commands: “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” (Col. 4:2)