Why, What, and How to Be Thankful?

Are you someone who finds it easy to be thankful? Or, on the contrary, are you struggling to become more thankful?

In my work day to day, I often hear the phrase, “When the ‘what and why’ is clear, the ‘how’ is easy”—when we know the ‘what and why,’ it is easier to find the ‘how.’ However, people are often trapped into looking for a way out (the how) first, instead of finding out the why and the what. We stay busy asking, “How can I be thankful?” and forget to ask, “Why should I be thankful, and what should I be thankful for?”

So, it is easier if we have clear reasons and purpose for being thankful. Let us discuss them one by one.

Why be thankful?

In the Old and New Testaments, you will find 48 words for gratitude. If you search for ‘thanksgiving’, you will find 185 words. Wow, that is a lot, right.

“Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

The question is, why are we thankful? Because we experience that God is good. His faithful love endures forever for us, His people. One of the writers of the Psalms (King David) recorded so many expressions of his gratitude to God. David was very close to God. That is why being thankful was not difficult for him.

Then why do many people find it hard to be thankful? It may be because they are not close to God, so it is hard to feel His goodness, or on the contrary, they take it lightly. Basically, gratitude is a natural human response when receiving kindness from others. It should not be difficult. Yet busyness and our perspective on life can blur, even cover up, the good things we receive.

The question is: Do you have a close relationship with God? Do you experience God’s goodness every day? If not, you need to find the answer.

What are you thankful for?

For me personally, there are many things to be thankful for. However, these three things always work as mood booster or encouragement in my daily life.

• Being thankful for having an amazing God

“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God! For I shall again give thanks to Him, my help and my God!” – Psalm 42:12

The Lord Jesus is the source of my gratitude. I am thankful to have an amazing God who understands, is willing to listen, and always comforts me. When I lose strength, I know I can come to Him and tell Him whatever I am feeling. This makes me feel relieved and gives me peace.

As written in Psalms, you do not need to worry, be anxious, or be cast down. You have a God who is far greater than all your problems! He is the true source of strength and hope.

• Being thankful for what we have

Many people find it hard to be thankful because they are too focused on the things they do not yet have. Sometimes, we are also trapped by the illusion that ‘the grass is greener on the other side’. So, while you strive to reach the things you aspire to, do not forget to count the blessings God gives.

Your life is very precious and valuable. Have you given thanks for the breath of life in you? What price would have to be paid if your free breath were replaced with an oxygen tank? If I wanted to buy your eyes for one billion rupiah, would you sell them? I do not think so! See, how valuable and rich you are!

Today, have you given thanks for your health, your complete body, family, food, work, education, a place to live, and so on? Don’t take things for granted. Remember, many people out there are still struggling for the things you consider trivial.

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

• Being thankful for our community

Living alone as a Christian is not easy. There are many worldly temptations and challenges around us.

I am thankful because when I am down or sad, I have spiritual friends in the same struggle who are ready to lift me up again. When I tell them about my problems, they help me find solutions, then close with these sweet words, “I will pray for you.” This means so much to me. Like a drop of water in the desert, their encouragement is so refreshing and calming to the heart.

How can we be thankful?

Here are simple steps to have a heart full of gratitude:

• Build a relationship with God

A relationship with God is the first thing you must have. This is more than just coming to church every Sunday. A good relationship with God makes you feel close, safe, and comfortable talking with Him. If you have God, actually it’s enough for living. Everything will be provided for.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything let your requests be made known to God in prayer and supplication with thanksgiving.” – Philippians 4:6

• Write down the things you are thankful for

Write down at least three things you are thankful for every day. This will help you become a more grateful person. Great things always begin with small things. Do this in baby steps and see the result!

• Have a spiritual community

A bundle of broomsticks is harder to break than a single stick. No matter how great you are, you will be far greater if you strive together with people who share the same vision and mission. When you are troubled and discouraged, when your gratitude starts to fade, there are companions who help you rise again. Together, we can do even greater things!

If you are still confused about where and how to start building a relationship with God, begin by looking for a community that can help you know God and His Word.

Now you know what and why we should be thankful, right? Enjoy living a life full of gratitude!

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• Set Aside Envy, the Hindrance to Progress in Life
• How Can We See Ourselves According to the Image of God?
• Giving Thanks in the Midst of Rain
• Hard to Be Thankful? Train Your Mindset This Way!
• 3 Reasons Being Thankful for These Small Things Can Change Your Life. Read On!

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