I firmly believe that living with a grateful heart is an essential spiritual discipline. Gratitude is not merely the expression of an emotion; it is a posture of life, a lens through which we view the world and perceive the grace of God.
In the Christian faith, Scripture reminds us to “give thanks in all circumstances,” for this is God’s will for us in Christ Jesus. Gratitude is more than a natural response to favorable circumstances—it is an act of worship. Each time we give thanks, we are in fact acknowledging God’s sovereignty, confessing that every good thing we enjoy is not of our own making but a gift from His hand. Gratitude humbles us, reminding us that we are recipients of grace rather than masters of our own lives. For Christians, thanksgiving is not only an outpouring of emotion but also a testimony of faith: even in adversity, we can still say, “Lord, thank You,” because we trust that His guidance surpasses our understanding.
A grateful person is sensitive to God’s grace and can find reasons to praise Him regardless of circumstances. Gratitude brings health to our souls, joy to our lives, and fills us with hopeful expectations.
There is a clear difference in the testimony of Christians who live with gratitude and those who do not. Grateful believers tend to radiate gentleness and humility. They readily accept others, appreciate their contributions, and see God’s hand behind every blessing. Their words are filled with encouragement and affirmation; their conduct reflects joy and peace. When they serve, it is not with reluctance or complaint, but willingly out of love for the Lord. Though they may grow physically weary, they remain glad to serve, because to them, ministry is a privilege of grace, not a heavy burden.
On the other hand, a Christian who lacks gratitude often fixates on what is missing, on weakness, and on dissatisfaction, failing to see the blessings God has already given. Such an attitude not only robs them of joy but also produces criticism and resentment in relationships, and can quietly affect the entire community, weaken the unity of the church and leave their own spirit barren. Moreover, they tend to compare themselves with others, pressuring those around them in service, and expecting others to conform to their own desires.
Brothers and sisters, gratitude is not a habit we acquire naturally—it must be intentionally cultivated in daily life. As we count our blessings each day and learn to give thanks even for ordinary things, our hearts are gradually shaped, and our eyes become more attuned to God’s goodness. Gratitude does not mean denying the existence of difficulties; rather, it is choosing to trust God’s presence in the midst of them.
My earnest hope is that every Christian will grow into a person with a grateful heart. When we live with gratitude, our personal lives will be more joyful, our families more harmonious, and the ministry of the church more united. May we, in our daily lives—whether in prayer, in worship, or in times of challenge—offer thanksgiving as a sacrifice, presenting to God worship that is pleasing to Him.
Rev. Chiu