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“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 ESV

Gratitude may seem small, but in God’s eyes, it’s a powerful act of worship. When we choose to give thanks — not just in the good moments, but even in the difficult ones — we’re declaring something profound: God, You are worthy no matter what.

Paul’s words here are simple but not easy. “Give thanks in all circumstances” doesn’t mean we have to pretend that pain or hardship don’t exist. It means that even in the middle of the struggle, we can still find reasons to worship. Gratitude shifts our focus. It reminds us of who God is, not just what we’re going through.

Think about it: every prayer of thanks, every whispered “Lord, I’m grateful,” is worship. It lifts our eyes off of what’s broken and places them on the One who is faithful. And when we do that, something changes inside us — our perspective, our peace, even our hope.

Maybe today you don’t feel like rejoicing. Maybe life feels heavy. But what if your worship began with something simple, like thanking God for breath in your lungs, or for His presence that never leaves? Gratitude doesn’t have to be big to be real.

Worship isn’t just about the songs we sing; it’s about the hearts we bring. And when we bring hearts full of thanks — even imperfect thanks — it delights God’s heart.

So today, pause for a moment. Name a few things you’re grateful for. Whisper them to God. That’s worship. And it just might change your day.