Give Thanks… Really?
Scripture reminds us of three life-giving practices: to rejoice always, to pray continually, and to give thanks in all circumstances. These words—always, continually, and in all circumstances— don’t point to occasional gestures, but to a consistent way of living.
It’s easy to give thanks when everything is going well. But God calls us to gratitude even when life feels overwhelming. 1 Thessalonians 5:18: Give thanks in ALL circumstances… but why? Because thankfulness is more than good manners—it’s God’s will for us, and it shapes our faith, our perspective, and even our health.
The Science of Gratitude
Interestingly, science affirms what the Bible has long taught: gratitude changes us. Research shows that gratitude can rewire our brains, lower stress and depression, and even improve physical health.
Effects on the Brain include
Positive effect on neurotransmitters: Gratitude stimulates dopamine and serotonin, the “feel-good” chemicals that improve mood and well-being.
Stress Reduction: Regular gratitude practice can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) by up to 23%.
Brain Pathways: Gratitude strengthens neural pathways in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, regions tied to memory, emotional regulation, and decision-making.
Resilience: Studies show trauma survivors who practice gratitude report fewer symptoms of depression and PTSD.
Effects on the Body
Activates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering heart rate and blood pressure, reducing stress response and even repairing DNA
Improves sleep quality
Enhances immune system function
Reduces perceived pain
Happiness and Mental Health
A landmark study by Dr. Martin Seligman found gratitude exercises increased happiness by up to 25% over a three-month period.
Dr. Caroline Leaf’s work shows gratitude creates new neural pathways, making it easier to adopt a hopeful perspective over time.
Gratitude and “Vibration”
Beyond biology, some frameworks describe gratitude as raising our “vibrational frequency,” aligning us with joy, love, and hope. While “frequency” language comes from positive psychology and energetic traditions, the underlying truth is biblical: gratitude shifts our hearts toward life and abundance.
Positive emotions like joy and love replace fear and worry.
Gratitude fosters connection and empathy, drawing us toward others.
It nurtures resilience, helping us face life with courage and optimism.
Why Gratitude Matters Spiritually
Giving thanks in hard times can feel counterintuitive. Who wants to be thankful in the middle of grief, financial strain, or illness? Yet gratitude is not about denying hardship or pretending things are fine. Instead, it’s about anchoring our hearts in God’s faithfulness and shifting our focus from problems to His presence.
Gratitude:
Guards our hearts against bitterness
Fosters peace and joy
Acknowledges God’s goodness and faithfulness
Strengthens faith by reminding us of His past provision
Thankfulness becomes a lifeline, moving us from despair to hope. Rather than waiting for life to be “right” before we give thanks, we choose gratitude as an act of faith, trusting God in the middle of uncertainty.
Making Gratitude a Daily Practice
Gratitude doesn’t happen by accident—it’s cultivated. Here are simple ways to build it into your daily rhythm:
Keep a gratitude journal: Write down at least 5 things each day to be thankful for!
Pray with thankfulness: Begin your prayers with what you’re grateful for.
Speak it out loud: Tell someone why you appreciate them.
Reframe challenges: Look for one blessing or lesson in the middle of difficulty.
Create reminders: Post verses like 1 Thessalonians 5:18 where you’ll see them often.
In Closing
Gratitude isn’t about ignoring hardship—it’s about choosing to see God’s hand even in the storm. It’s about realigning our hearts with His goodness and His promises. Scripture commands it, science confirms it, and our souls need it.
So today, whatever your circumstances, pause and give thanks. Not because life is perfect, but because God is faithful.
