The Art of Thankfulness as a Lifestyle
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV
I learned from childhood that expressing gratitude meant saying ‘thank you’ as a courtesy. My mother schooled me as a small child to be courteous by expressing thanks, although it really had no significance to me. She taught me to say those words whenever someone gave me a gift, an item, or complimented me on my appearance or attire. Perhaps you received the same teaching as a child. And, like me, you passed it on as a family tradition to your children and grandchildren. Some children immediately developed the skill, while others needed constant prompting until they understood.
For example, I understood that saying ‘thank you’ motivated others to be more generous because of my learned skill. After I learned to say ‘thank you’ on my own without prompting, I also received more things as a reward; people applauded my good manners. Before long, I had mastered the art of saying ‘thank you’.
However, as children, saying ‘thank you’ was usually just a common courtesy for simply receiving things, and not the expression a grateful heart. Could this be the superficial, childlike mindset that plagues society today? Have we mastered the art of thankfulness in word, but have no deep sense of gratitude that touches the heart of God in appreciation of His grace?
As we grow spiritually, we master the art of thankfulness. Therefore, it extends beyond superficial words to deep heartfelt gratitude. Gratitude has the power to change our perspective. Being thankful helps us see beyond what’s missing to what’s still working. It shifts our focus from frustration to faith. Expressing heartfelt thanks opens our eyes to the quiet blessings around us that are easily taken for granted. Being thankful teaches us life lessons that build our character, especially as Christians. We recognize the significance of having a grateful heart, not just for our blessings, but also for God's actions.
Therefore, thankfulness isn’t about one day each year. It must be a lifestyle that exemplifies our gratitude to God not only for things, but for being the Creator and Owner of everything. This perspective makes saying ‘thank you’ much more than a cordial expression.
“The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness, The world and those who dwell therein.” ~ Psalm 24:1, NKJV
As Thanksgiving Day approaches, and throughout the month of November, find reasons to celebrate the grace of gratitude even in these difficult times. It can feel unnecessary to celebrate when life seems uncertain. Many are facing challenges, loss, or transitions that make gratitude seem distant. Yet this is precisely when thanksgiving becomes most meaningful. Gratitude is not denial — it’s declaration. It says, “God is still good, even here.”
Conclusively, saying ‘thank you’ may have started as a courteous expression practiced at an early age, but in this season, let it be love-filled expressions from a heart overflowing with eternal gratitude because of God’s amazing gift of grace.
Queen Esther Phillips is a published author, owner of Royalty Solutions LLC, certified life coach, and speaker with 30+ years of creating and publishing faith-based content. Connect with her on IG/FB @queenephillips and https://www.theroyaltysolutions.com