11/20/2025
We had a great message at LIFT this month.
The True Meaning of Thankful
When we think about being thankful, our minds often go straight to what we have family, friends, a home, food on the table, maybe even a job we love. Those are wonderful blessings, and it’s good to thank God for them every day and not just at Thanksgiving.
But the true meaning of being thankful is deeper than the good things in life, it’s a heart posture that remains grateful even when life isn’t perfect.
True thankfulness isn’t based on our circumstances. It’s based on our trust, our trust that God is still working, even when we don’t understand.
The Bible tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18,
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Notice that it doesn’t say for all circumstances... it says in all circumstances.
That means even in our challenges, our waiting seasons, our losses, we can still find a reason to give thanks, because God is still with us, still providing, still teaching, and still loving us through it all.
When we choose to be thankful, something shifts inside of us.
• Worry gives way to peace.
• Complaining turns into contentment.
• And we begin to see how truly blessed we are.
Being thankful doesn’t mean ignoring the hard things. It means trusting that God is greater than the hard things.
So today, take a moment to pause and reflect:
What am I truly thankful for — not just the easy blessings, but the lessons, the growth, the moments when God carried me through?
When our hearts live in gratitude, we become a reflection of God’s goodness to others. Our thankfulness brings light, hope, and encouragement to everyone around us.
Closing Prayer:
Father God, Thank You for every blessing — seen and unseen. Teach us to be thankful not just when life feels good, but even when it’s hard. Help us to recognize Your hand in every part of our story and to carry hearts full of gratitude each day. May our thankfulness remind others of Your faithfulness. And may we all have JOY every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
