Encouragement for Today

February 26, 2025 A Fresh Look at Gratitude KAREN WINGATE Lee en español

“give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)

Early one morning at my local store, I told the checkout clerk, “I’m getting my weekly shopping done before I have to go to work.” But there was a catch in my spirit as I heard my words.

I have to go to work? My job is wonderful. That day’s project filled me with excitement. The truth is I get to go to work. So why didn’t I say that?

It’s easy to be thankful for and enthusiastic about the enjoyable parts of life and situations that resolve to our liking. It’s harder when struggles dominate our everyday moments, obstacles and distractions clog our pursuits, or unresolvable situations don’t make sense.

Still, the Apostle Paul instructs us, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

All things — is that possible? Yet Paul said this is God's will for us. When we see life from God’s eternal perspective and find contentment in whatever situation we're in, we discover it’s possible to thank Him for whatever we have.

Paul told his readers in the city of Philippi, “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise” (Philippians 4:8, NLT).

Focusing on God’s perspective of Truth and meditating on the praiseworthy things of life will help us remember the cluster of blessings nestled within anything we do. For example, I don't have to wash dishes; I have dishes to wash. God has blessed me with food and tableware. I have the physical strength to complete household chores, the means to buy food, and a job that provides support.

Consistent gratitude for everything in my life is still difficult at times. But I'm gaining ground in being joyfully content in all circumstances by changing my perspective about the little things in my daily routine. And I’m taking a second look at the comments I make to others. My pessimistic words to the store clerk could be excused by rationalizing: “I have to” is a common expression. But saying “I get to” more accurately reflects my Christian values and gives me a chance to share my gratitude-laced faith in a winsome way.

Let’s do a word search today on our use of the phrase “have to.” Keep track of how many times you say it. Then tomorrow, do a find-and-replace search, exchanging “I have to” with “I get to.” Watch how it changes the reaction of those who hear your new outlook. Your words just might make it a more grateful day for someone else.

Thank You, Father, for all You give me. I want to stay in touch with You today to tell You repeatedly how grateful I am for all Your good gifts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

OUR FAVORITE THINGS

Discover more ways you can find gratitude in everything in Karen Wingate’s latest book, Grateful Heart: 60 Reasons to Give Thanks in All Things. Get your copy here.

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Karen shares more about the joy of grateful living in her weekly newsletter. You can sign up here. You can also find Karen on Facebook!

FOR DEEPER STUDY

Philippians 1:3, “I thank my God every time I remember you” (NIV).

What people has God placed in your life who bless and benefit you? You can take steps toward being grateful in all things by thanking God for each person you connect with today.

Share about someone you’re thankful you get to do life with in the comments.

© 2025 by Karen Wingate. All rights reserved.