“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name.”
Psalm 100:4

If I were given a choice of values I could instill in my children that would carry them through life, I would wish for many things. My list would include: Faith in God, wisdom and Godly discernment, a willingness to help others in need (even before they are asked), and a considerate heart toward mankind. In addition to these, a thankful spirit is of paramount importance. “Thank you” is a wonderful phrase, but a spirit of gratefulness is an intentional mindset.

What are ways we can encourage thankfulness? Not only in training children, but in our own lives? Is it really an important characteristic, or an outdated custom found in dusty etiquette books? The Bible teaches us the significance of this Godly attribute. I firmly believe that an “attitude of gratitude” is a crucial key to guiding our lives, as a helm steers a great ship. It will not only be pleasing to the Lord, but in trials, we will appreciate the light our blessings shine when our path seems dark.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Phillipians 4:6

This subject always reminds me of the 1960 Disney movie, “Polyanna.” It may be scripted fiction, but the message is clear and powerful: our mindset can have a real impact on our lives. Meditating on our blessings and praising God for them will provide a positive outlook on any situation. We aren’t asked to pretend nothing is wrong during difficult moments, but instead, to pray to God with thanksgiving in our hearts and hold on to our faith in Him with a calm assurance that He cares for us.

Paul wrote to the saints in Philippi:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.”
Philippians 4:8

I witnessed first-hand what gratitude to our Lord looks like from my grandfather, Bill Simmons. We often walked together when I was a child and talked about spiritual things. I remember one occasion when we were walking outside on their beautiful property. With the expansive blue sky ahead of us, birds singing, and nature surrounding our pathway, he said with arms outstretched, “Thank you Lord for this beautiful day!” That moment stayed with me, and opened my eyes to soak in the everyday blessings the Lord has granted us. His Word, our family, dear friends, daily food and provisions; and the greatest of all: redemption through Jesus’ merciful sacrifice and love for us. He has provided innumerable gifts, and for that I am eternally grateful.

“I always thank my God for you because of His grace given you in Christ Jesus.”
I Corinthians 1:4