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Hebrews 13:15 - Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.

It seems like every year we reach this point, especially with Thanksgiving around the corner, and look back, and think, “Well… this year didn’t go like I expected.” Maybe you feel that way today. Life rarely unfolds exactly as we imagine, but even then, there is still so much to be thankful for.

The Bible calls us to give thanks in all things, not just when everything falls into place, but in the highs and the lows. Why? Because gratitude isn’t only about honoring God; it strengthens us, too. When we pause to thank Him, we’re choosing to see His hand at work, even in seasons that didn’t look like our plan.

Take time every day to say, “Lord, thank You. Thank You for what You’ve done, and thank You for what You’re going to do.” He truly is worthy.

Ephesians 5:20 - Always give thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

How does praise help us? As we reflect on God’s goodness, our hearts remember His faithfulness. We think back to moments He carried us, answered us, comforted us, or made a way when there wasn’t one. And when we remember His faithfulness behind us, our faith grows stronger for what’s ahead.

When life gets heavy, it’s easy to feel like everything is dark and there’s no way out, but that is never the whole picture. Gratitude brings light back into view. It reminds us that God has been faithful before and He will be faithful again. As we thank Him, hope rises, strength rises, and peace returns. We remember we are not walking alone.

The more thankful we choose to be, the more aware we become of God's blessings, big and small. The more we notice His blessings, the more our hearts are filled with confidence and joy.

God doesn’t ask us to give thanks for His benefit; He asks because it helps us. Praise shifts our mindset, softens our hearts, and opens the door for His peace and presence to flood in.

Philippians 4:6–7 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

When we choose praise instead of frustration, thankfulness instead of bitterness, we make room for God to move. A complaining heart closes doors, but a grateful heart builds faith. God responds to faith, and gratitude is an expression of trust in who He is.

Psalm 9:1 - I will praise You, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.

Psalm 34:1 - I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.

So today, stop and look around your life. What has God done for you? How has He helped you, comforted you, forgiven you, healed you, strengthened you, or lifted you when you needed Him most? Speak those things out. Thank Him out loud. As you do, God gets the glory and your heart gets the reminder: My God is faithful and so good!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, You are so worthy of all praise. Thank You for every blessing in my life,  what you’ve done already, and what you’re preparing ahead. Help me stay grateful, remember your goodness, and trust your faithfulness in every season. I love you, and I give thanks to your name. Amen.