Full Of Gratitude

Read

Ephesians 5:18b-20 “Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Think

Gratitude is more than a nice feeling or an added bonus to our Christian walk—it’s a powerful defense against sin and a gateway to a joy-filled life. Thanksgiving is a force that shapes the health of our souls. When we’re filled with gratitude, we’re not only recognizing God’s blessings; we’re actively pushing back against the temptations that try to pull us away from him.

The Bible shows us that gratitude is a mark of a Spirit-filled life. In Ephesians 5:18–20, Paul says, “Be filled with the Spirit... giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Notice he doesn’t say this filling leads to grand displays or miraculous signs but simply to thanksgiving. This isn’t about denying hardship or pretending everything’s perfect. It’s about recognizing that God’s goodness and presence are with us in every situation, whether easy or difficult.

Gratitude redirects our attention from what’s missing in our lives to what’s already been given. It helps us see the abundance we have in Christ, and in doing so, it guards our hearts from envy, bitterness, and pride. Pastor Tim Keller explains, “Gratitude is what you feel when you see grace.” When we cultivate a habit of thankfulness, we’re constantly looking at God’s grace instead of the things that stir up dissatisfaction or resentment.

Today, try shifting your focus to what God has already provided. Think of even the smallest blessings—breath in your lungs, a roof over your head, someone who loves you—and thank God for them. When we do this, we’re choosing joy and building up a defense against sin. Gratitude isn’t just something nice to add to our lives; it’s a practice that protects our souls and fills us with the happiness that only God can provide. As you go through today, let thanksgiving be the soundtrack of your life. It’s in this steady rhythm of gratitude that we find peace, strength, and the fullness of life God intended for us.

Apply

Take a moment to thank God for three things, whether big or small. It could be as simple as thanking him for restful sleep, a new day, or the people in your life.

Pray

God, thank you for your constant love and presence in my life. Help me to keep my heart focused on you, especially through gratitude. When I’m tempted to look at what I lack or what’s going wrong, remind me of your faithfulness and all the ways you provide. Let my thankfulness draw me closer to you, keeping my heart anchored. In Jesus’ name. Amen.