Developing a Heart of Thankfulness 

By Laura Grills

November 21, 2025

Psalm 9:1 I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works.

The Bible mentions “give thanks” 73 times and “thanksgiving” mentioned 29 times. An entire book of the Bible is focused on songs of praise. 

This is a wonderful time of year to evaluate our hearts. One prayer that my husband and I have for our daughter is that she develops a heart of gratitude. The Bible provides us with specifics on where, when, how, and why we are to follow this command.

Psalm 35:18 I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much people. This tells us WHERE we are to give thanks.

Ephesians 5:20 Giving thanks always for all things….  This tells WHEN to give thanks. 

Several Psalms mention HOW to give thanks by doing it with our whole hearts. 

Psalm 138:1 I will praise thee with my whole heart: before the gods will I sing praise unto thee.

There are many reasons stated in God’s Word for WHY we are to praise Him. 

Psalm 100:5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.  Psalm 138:2 I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.

As we follow God’s direction, we find that spending time giving thanks is the remedy for depression and discouragement. 

Psalm 42:5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.

Let us take this season and focus on giving our Saviour praise for Who He is and all He has done. 

Reflection—Be thankful to God for all, in all, through all, always, and everywhere.