There are many verses in the Bible that tell us we need to give thanks to God. During this Thanksgiving season, here are some reminders to give thanks to God, not only now, but always.

 

Psalm 107:8

“Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind,”

David reminds us to be thankful for all of the wonderful things God has done for mankind and His unfailing love.

 

1 Corinthians 15:57

“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

What victory is Paul referring to here? The victory we have over the spiritual death (hell) through Christ Jesus. Jesus won the victory when he rose from the grave, now we share in that victory.

 

1 Thessalonians 1:2

“We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers.”

Paul stresses the need to be thankful for people as well. Notice how this wasn’t a one time giving of thanks though. Paul says they were mentioned “continually” in their prayers. We need to remember to be thankful for the people in our lives.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:18

“give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

No matter what the circumstance is, give thanks to God. Even through the rough times in our lives, God calls us to be thankful. Why? We should be thankful because we have God to help us through the bad times, and “we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength” (Philippians 4:13).

 

Colossians 1:12

“and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.”

The word “joyful” here is stressed significantly. When we give thanks to God, it is not just words that are coming out of our mouth. The thanks should have joy coming out of the heart and emotion tied to it. The giving of thanks should be a joyful occasion, and should not just be at the Thanksgiving table, but always occurring.

 

Colossians 3:17

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

The events happening in life should not have an effect on our giving of thanks to God. No matter what we do, we should do it for Christ, and give thanks to God for everything He has done.

 

In conclusion, God should receive thanks all year round. We should always give thanks to God for the blessings we have, the people in our lives, and Christ Jesus who, through him, gives us the most wonderful blessing of all, eternal life (John 3:16).