Latest Devotion
Gratitude is an Attitude
By: Kathie Welch
Thursday, November 27, 2025
In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. I Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV)
This time of year, most of us are more thankful than usual. What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word Thanksgiving? Family, turkey and dressing, football, and pie are some common responses. But many of us are focused on what we do on Thanksgiving instead of the why. While food, fun, and fellowship are integral parts of our American Thanksgiving celebration, we must remember that scripture says we must be thankful to God and in ALL circumstances. As Christ followers, we must cultivate an attitude of thankfulness in our hearts every day, not just on one day in November.
Have you ever considered why giving thanks is so important to God? Here are a few reasons:
- I Thessalonians 5:18 says, it's God's will for us.
- We are acknowledging that God is our Creator, Savior, and Provider.
- It opens our hearts, and it increases our awareness of God's presence.
- It keeps our minds on God instead of ourselves and our circumstances.
- Instead of worrying and complaining, we are thanking and praising God.
- It delights our Heavenly Father when we remember to thank Him for all He has done.
I admit that I often overlook the need to be grateful. When things aren't going well, I am sometimes prone to whine and complain. Recently, I decided I should express a word of thanks every time I'm tempted to grumble. At first I failed, but as time went on, I recognized a gradual change in my attitude. As my default started changing from grumbling to gratitude, I noticed I wasn't as overwhelmed by life's irritations and disruptions. I discovered it was just as easy to praise God in my circumstances as it was to complain about them! I still have a long way to go, but I know God will keep empowering me to change (Philippians 2:13).
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. Psalm 100:4
An attitude of gratitude is how Christ followers live victoriously. The more grateful we are, the more aware we become of God’s presence. When we're grateful, it's easier to discern God's plans and purposes for our lives. When we have a grateful heart, it spills over to others and helps them see God in us. Have you ever considered that your greatest witness might be your attitude, not your words?
Today, (and every day) let's be sure to remember that Thanksgiving isn't just a holiday; it's an attitude!