Giving Thanks

Scripture: James 1:17, Luke 17:16-19

Have you ever felt thankful but never said it? Genuine gratitude always overflows from our hearts so our thanks can be seen, expressed and experienced by God and others.

What Does God Say?

You might be thinking, Well, that's probably true for others; but God knows my heart.

It's true God knows your heart, but it's also true that He expects you to express your thanks. The Bible clearly shows us that Jesus anticipated that people would show their gratitude for God's blessings. In the following verse, Jesus had healed ten people. But only one gave thanks.

"He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him--and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, 'Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?'" (Luke 17:16-18, NIV).

• What do you think were the expectations Jesus had for those He healed?
• Who was it that actually returned to give thanks?
• Read Luke 17:19. What other blessings were associated with the person who gave thanks?

My Thoughts

What special blessings might we miss out on because we're not thankful or because we don't give thanks?

My Part

Make a list below of things you are thankful for.

Now, take a few moments to pray and express your gratitude to God. Remember that the Bible teaches us that all the blessings and good things in our lives have come from Him. (See James 1:17).

Other Scripture to read: Matthew 11:25; John 11:41; Romans 1:8, 7:25; 1 Corinthians 1:4; Philippians 1:3.