A LIFE OF GRATITUDE

9/29/2025

"Giving thanks to God the Father, who hath made us worthy to be partakers of the lot of the saints in light" (Colossians 1:12, Douay-Rheims Bible).

At different points in life, you may face challenges that seem to have no clear solution. In such moments, the natural tendency is to complain, grow angry, or sink into bitterness. But God’s Word offers a different response: thanksgiving. Psalm 37:8 warns us, “Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.”

Anger and bitterness are destructive forces. They are like drinking poison while hoping to harm someone else. Beyond harming relationships, they affect your spiritual health and even your physical well-being. James 3:16 says, “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” In other words, unforgiveness, strife, and resentment open the door for the enemy to sow confusion and chaos.

God’s plan for you is not to live under such oppression. He desires your prayers to be answered and His power to flow unhindered in your life. But holding on to bitterness grieves the Holy Spirit and blocks the flow of His blessing. On the other hand, thanksgiving positions you to walk in His fullness. Gratitude keeps your heart sensitive to His voice and strengthens you in times of difficulty.

Things may not always happen as you expect, but gratitude changes your perspective. You cannot walk in thanksgiving and remain depressed or fearful at the same time. James 1:20 reminds us, “For the wrath of man does not work the righteousness of God.” Instead of letting anger rule your heart, let gratitude flow from your lips.

Paul exhorts us in Ephesians 4:30–31: “Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.”Choosing gratitude is not only obedience to God; it is the pathway to peace, joy, and victory.

Romans 8:28 assures us that “all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” That means even when life looks uncertain, God is weaving everything into a greater plan for your benefit. Thanksgiving is your way of agreeing with His plan and trusting His faithfulness.

Make thanksgiving more than an occasional act—let it be your daily posture. Gratitude will keep you strong, joyful, and victorious in every season.

God bless you!

Faith-Filled Confession:

Father, I thank You for making me a partaker of the inheritance of the saints in light. Thank You for filling my heart with Your love and teaching me to walk in forgiveness. I choose gratitude over bitterness, thanksgiving over anger, and peace over strife. I declare that all things are working together for my good, in Jesus’ name. Amen.