“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 15:57, NIV

Life has many ups and downs. Sometimes we may feel we are on top of the world, and everything is as it should be. Other times, we may be emotional, physically or mentally on our last straw. This means at some points thankfulness and gratitude is easy, while at other times it may be the last thing on our minds.

As Christians, even when we are at our very lowest, we know we have salvation through Jesus Christ. What a beautiful gift this is for us — we cannot even fully comprehend the sacrifice and the grace he has given us. We can forever be grateful for this, no matter what is happening in our life or in the world around us.

Having gratitude involves our hearts and attitude. However, thankfulness can also be seen through our actions. It may take practice to rejoice and express gratitude. Here are some ways we can practice and become thankful people:

• Remember the gospel: The gospel message is powerful. We can never reflect on its beauty too much.
• Notice the little things: Some people find it helpful to make a list of things they notice in their lives that they want to be thankful for. Others may mentally note what is good in their lives. For some, writing a song or making artwork may be a way to notice
• Turn to scripture: The Bible is full of reasons for gratitude and testimonies of God’s goodness. Sometimes, a passage can speak to our hearts and give us new perspectives. When we spend time in God’s Word, we can grow our gratitude.
• Use your gifts: At times we can forget the gifts God has blessed us with. Perhaps, we are good with numbers or love to sing. We can use our gifts to bring glory and gratitude to God.
• Show gratitude and kindness to others: One way to develop an attitude of thankfulness is through expressing gratitude to those around us. Whether it be a stranger who bagged your groceries or friend who took time out of their day to help you, we can appreciate the things others do for us.
• Praise and worship: Worship and praise is another way that we can practice building grateful habits and rejoicing in the Lord.

Grand Canyon University offers a unique Christian identity and mission and a welcoming campus environment. To read more, check out other Weekly Devotionals presented by the Department of Spiritual Life.

Approved by the Coordinator of the Department of Global Outreach on Oct. 26, 2022

“But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.” — 1 Samuel 12:24, NIV

Every single day we can give thanks to God for the great things He has done. Giving thanks does not have to be a grand gesture or complicated. In fact, it can be as simple as giving a prayer of thanks. Perhaps, we see a beautiful sunrise or enjoy a tasty meal. Maybe, we see someone do something kind or perhaps we have a little time to ourselves.

There are so many details in our daily lives that we can overlook if we are not careful. Each day brings new opportunity to be grateful and celebrate what God has done.

Psalm 13:5 says, “But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.” We should treasure our salvation with thankfulness. Our hearts can rejoice in this. It is not dependent on our situation, works or feelings but rather on Jesus Christ.