Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
I love this quote by Zig Ziglar: “Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.” It’s so true. The more we look for things to appreciate, the more we find!
First Thessalonians 5:12–18 gives us a great perspective on this topic. Paul is wrapping up his letter to the Thessalonians, and he starts by reminding them to appreciate each other: “Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work” (vv. 12–13).
But Paul doesn’t stop there. After encouraging them to show gratitude for each other, he adds that we need to “give thanks in all circumstances” (v. 18).
No matter what we’re going through, we can find something to be thankful for. I’m not saying that you need to be thankful for difficult circumstances, but when you remain thankful in those circumstances, it has a powerful effect on you. In fact, living with this appreciation focus is one key to living a joy-filled life!
When you notice things you appreciate, you are recognizing what you value in life. What do you value about your relationship with God? What do you value about the people in your life? What about your job, your country, and your church?
The more you choose to have an appreciation focus, the more you’ll find joy in life!