2020 has been a year of unique challenges. We hope that these Bible verses will help you recognize the many blessings in your life.
“It is good to give thanks to the Lord and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High” (Psalm 92:1).
“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him” (Psalm 100:4).
“In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).
In the New Testament, the word most often used for “praise” literally means “thank” or “give thanks to.” The best way to praise God is to think of things you are thankful for and to thank Him for them.
But why does God want our praise? One reason may be that He is like us in many ways. Human beings were, after all, created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26). And He is our loving Father, Who has given each of us tremendous blessings. Aren’t you pleased when your child or a friend thanks you for something you have done for her or him? Surely your Heavenly Father is, too!
Perhaps the main reason God urges us to be thankful is that He knows how beneficial it is. Gratitude is the healthiest emotion, and it leads to both physical and spiritual well-being.
This week, try writing down or saying aloud at least two or three things you are grateful for every day. Look for the blessings you often take for granted and point them out to a friend or family member. And don’t forget to tell God, “Thank you…very much!”
