Hey Clawson Family!

Song: 

Scripture:

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

Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise! Give thanks to Him; bless His name!” (Psalm 100:4)

Devotional: 

Gratitude is not merely a reaction to blessings but a posture of the heart. A heart of thanksgiving sees God’s goodness in every season—whether in abundance or lack, joy or sorrow. Paul’s instruction in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 challenges us to give thanks in all circumstances. This does not mean we are thankful for the hardships, but that we recognize God’s hand and faithfulness through them.

When we cultivate a heart of thanksgiving, we shift our focus from what we lack to the countless ways God provides. It reframes our perspective, allowing us to see trials as opportunities for growth and dependence on God. Even in the darkest moments, His love, grace, and mercy remain constant.

Consider the life of Jesus. Before performing miracles, He often gave thanks (John 11:41; Matthew 15:36). At the Last Supper, He gave thanks before breaking the bread that symbolized His body, soon to be sacrificed for our sins (Luke 22:19). Gratitude was central to His relationship with the Father, modeling for us a heart fully surrendered and trusting in God’s plan.

Thanksgiving is not just an action but an attitude. Reflect on how a thankful heart has drawn you closer to God over the past year. Think about how you can cultivate even more gratitude in the year to come. Spend time in worship, praising God for who He is, not just for what He has done. Let thanksgiving become a rhythm of your life.

Journal:

Write down three things you are thankful for each day, even small blessings. This practice helps focus your mind on God’s goodness.

Training: 

This week, take a moment to thank God in a situation where you wouldn’t naturally feel grateful. Watch how your perspective changes and how His peace fills your heart.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unchanging goodness and love. Help me to develop a heart of thanksgiving that honors You in every season of life. Teach me to see Your blessings in both the joys and challenges. May my gratitude draw me closer to You and inspire others to see Your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.