“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body, you were called to peace. And be thankful.” — Colossians 3:15, NIV
Thankfulness involves our hearts and attitudes. At times, we may naturally feel thankful, but at other times, we may have to deliberately adopt an attitude of thankfulness. It may seem easier to be grateful at times such as Thanksgiving Day when most people are conscious about showing thankfulness. However, as the busyness of the holiday season approaches and the year progresses, it can be easy to let the attitude of thankfulness slip away.
As Christians, however, our peace and gratitude should not be a temporary state but an ever-present state of worship and thanksgiving towards God. Through Him, we have life, salvation, and hope for the future. Our attitude toward God and His creation can show our gratitude for the opportunities He has given us.
We can also show our attitude of thanksgiving toward others. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as, in fact, you are doing.” Through gratitude, we can encourage one another and show our appreciation for the good others do. We can also thank God for the people in our lives because He gave them to us.