In a world that often focuses on what we lack or what we wish were different, it can be easy to overlook the power of gratitude. But when we pause to reflect on the goodness of God, something shifts in our hearts. Gratitude becomes more than a feeling—it becomes a lifestyle. It is a way of drawing near to Jesus, acknowledging His blessings, and aligning our hearts with His peace. Let’s look at how Scripture invites us to live a life of thankfulness, especially in our relationship with Christ.
In Colossians 3:15-17 (ESV), Paul writes:
"And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
Paul’s words are a beautiful reminder that gratitude is more than a passing feeling—it is the posture we are called to adopt in Christ. First, he tells us to let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts. When we allow His peace to reign, gratitude flows naturally. We aren’t ruled by circumstances, but by the deep, unshakable peace that Jesus offers.
Next, Paul urges us to let the word of Christ dwell richly in us. As we reflect on His truth, we are filled with gratitude. This thankfulness should overflow in worship—through singing, praying, and even in our daily tasks, done in His name.
The song “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake beautifully captures this heart of thanksgiving. In the lyrics, he sings, “So I throw up my hands and praise You again and again, ‘cause all that I have is a Hallelujah, Hallelujah.” This is the spirit of Colossians 3:15-17—gratitude that rises up, even in the midst of life’s challenges, and spills over into praise.
How can you live this out today? Take a moment to reflect on all Jesus has done for you. Let His peace fill your heart. Find a moment to express your gratitude—whether through a prayer, singing a worship song like “Gratitude”, or serving others. Whatever you do, let it be done with thankfulness, knowing that every moment is an opportunity to grow closer to Him.
Gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a way of living. Let it stir your heart, draw you near to Jesus, and transform your day.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you. Thank you for your word and your truth that you have given us to guide our hearts. Father, we pray that you stir our hearts today and everyday to have gratitude and choose to focus on the blessings that you have provided us and not on what we may be lacking. We pray that you would not only stir our own hearts internally, but that you would lead us to walk a life of gratitude and grace everyday with each other. Father, we often come to you in times of need, help us to remember to come to you in times of thanksgiving and to be grateful for the prayers you have answered, perfect according to your will. Father, we thank you for Jesus, who came down to earth to live the perfect life that we cannot, and that by grace through faith, you save us. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Seth, thank you for this beautiful reflection. I love how you describe gratitude as more than a feeling, but as a lifestyle that brings us closer to Jesus. Your reminder from Colossians 3:15-17 really spoke to me—how true that when the peace of Christ fills our hearts, gratitude follows naturally. And connecting this to Brandon Lake’s song “Gratitude” just adds so much depth. There’s something so powerful about singing those words in church, knowing that no offering of ours could ever match His goodness, yet how pleasing it is to Him when we lift our voices in worship. Thank you for encouraging us to live each day with thankfulness, letting it shape our hearts and deepen our walk with Christ.