It seems irrational to thank God for everything that happens to us and others—yet that is exactly what God instructs us to do!

Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (I Thes. 5:16-17)

Why? Because persistent gratitude trains the brain for accomplishing important work in God’s kingdom.

• Thanksgiving proves our reliance on God’s wisdom and sovereignty.
• Thankful hearts set us apart from a Satan-ruled, pessimistic world.
• Thankfulness reinforces our Christian world view.
• Thanksgiving frees us to fulfill God’s calling in our lives.

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

…always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father…(Eph. 5:19)

Genuine thankfulness is the essential component present in all interactions with God—if we expect him to answer our prayers.

Happy Thanksgiving!