Quotes about Gratitude

Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. Philippians 4:11—12, NLT

My friends, for followers of Christ, it is impossible to give without receiving something back. It may not come back from the person or group we gave to. It may not come in the exact form we expected. But be assured, giving is rewarded! What gift do you have to give today?

Whatever God gives us is to be shared. When blessed financially, we share with those in need. When we are given a special insight from God's Word, we share with a group or friend. When God lifts our spirits, we encourage the discouraged. When we have a roof over our heads and food on the table, we offer hospitality. Most importantly, when we receive the gift of salvation, when we are made His disciples, we make it our purpose in life to help others become disciples.

Not every circumstance feels good. But we can always determine to be joyful. Yes, oftentimes joy is a choice, an act of the will. That's why grumbling and complaining is so dangerous. Negative thoughts and words take us down a path to where everything feels impossible, too hard, unfair. But positive words and thoughts—as an act of the will and as an expression of our salvation—lead us to joy.

Prepare for life first thing in the morning. Open your eyes, take a breath, and then thank God for it. With outstretched arms, ask God for wisdom, direction, and courage, that your life would be one of blessing, living as you were designed.

How many times do we miss blessings simply because we weren't looking for them? We get busy and distracted. We get stuck in bad moods. We think too much about ourselves—what I need and want. When our minds are stuck on all that is wrong, we miss all the wonderful things God puts in our path.

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Philippians 4:4, NLT

Who are we thinking about? And whom are we giving thanks to God for? We all need a reminder that we truly become who God created us to be when we stop thinking about me, me, me—and focus on others with the good news of Jesus.

God, renew my spiritual eyes to see you walk before me and beside me as I turn to you in every situation of life. Thank you for being truly present in my worship of you!

I choose to walk in the happiness you bring to me through the Spirit, O God. My eyes are fixed on you.

Holy Spirit of God, thank You for filling my life with You. You are in control of all that I am—my thoughts, my actions, my words, and my feelings. Thank You, Spirit of God. I am now living under the downpour of Your power and strength and blessing, and I thank You for the riches of Your mercy. In the precious name of Jesus. Amen.

To complain is to say in effect; "God, You blew it! You had a chance to meet my expectations, but You couldn't handle it! Nice try, God, close—but not close enough." So complaining definitely injures you and the Lord.