November 24, 2025

WHEN WE CHOOSE GRATITUDE

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus….Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful.”

1 Thessalonians 5:18, 23-24 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

Paul answers one of the most common questions believers ask: What is God’s will for my life? Part of that answer is surprisingly simple—choose gratitude in every situation.

He doesn’t tell us to be thankful only when life feels good. Anyone can do that. It’s easy to give thanks when a promotion comes through, when the doctor gives a good report, or when a new friendship brings joy. The real test comes when life turns the other direction—when the job disappears, when sickness enters the picture, or when someone we trusted hurts us.

Yet Scripture teaches that gratitude in every circumstance is connected to something deeper. A thankful heart is a peaceful heart. And where peace settles in, God’s transforming work begins to take root.

When we choose gratitude, our minds, our words, and our actions begin to line up with God’s desires for us. Peace replaces anxiety. Trust rises above fear. Gratitude becomes the posture that invites God to shape us into people who reflect His character.

This doesn’t happen automatically. It’s a daily decision—to look at what God has already provided rather than what we feel we’re missing. Mercy. Grace. Health. Strength. People who love us. And ultimately, God Himself, who is the giver of every good thing.

When we learn to thank God for what is instead of longing for what isn’t, we open the door for His peace and His holiness to fill our lives.

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, shape my heart to be one that chooses gratitude. Teach me to live in the peace and holiness You provide.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”