Through Gratitude
Gratitude doesn’t come naturally when life is stressful, disappointing, or uncertain. We fixate on what’s missing, what’s wrong, or what we wish would change—and over time, that perspective can steal joy and harden our hearts. But following Jesus teaches us a different way to see.
Biblical gratitude is more than positive thinking—it’s worship. It’s learning to recognize God’s presence, provision, and grace, and responding with thankfulness in every season. This page will help you grow a life of gratitude through Scripture, practical habits, and simple next steps that reorient your heart toward Jesus.
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
— COLOSSIANS 3:15–17
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
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
— PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7
Resources to Help You Build Thankfulness
Gratitude grows through practice. Use these resources to learn what Scripture says about thankfulness, develop simple habits that reshape your perspective, and cultivate joy rooted in God’s grace—no matter what season you’re in.
The Freedom of Contentment; Life of Grateful Joy
This Tim Keller message explores how contentment in God produces gratitude that steadies you when circumstances fluctuate.
Messages on Gratitude
Desiring God A curated collection of sermons from Desiring God that help you build lasting gratitude rooted in the gospel.
Fundamental Christian Attitudes: Thankfulness
This John MacArthur video message calls thankfulness a normal, defining mark of a Christian life and challenges the roots of…
Frequent Questions About Gratitude
Many people struggle with gratitude when life is hard or when anxiety and disappointment feel loud. These FAQs offer simple, biblical guidance to help you practice thankfulness honestly—without denial—and grow in joy and peace.
Gratitude is thankful recognition of God’s goodness and gifts. It isn’t pretending everything is okay or ignoring pain—it’s refusing to let hardship have the final word, because God is still faithful.
Gratitude strengthens faith, fights bitterness, and brings peace. It shifts your focus from what you can’t control to who God is, and it opens your heart to joy, humility, and generosity.
Some seasons call for gratitude for gifts; others call for gratitude for grace. You may not be thankful for the pain itself, but you can still be thankful for God’s presence, His promises, and the hope He gives in Christ.
Start small and daily. Notice one gift, one grace, and one person to thank. Speak it out loud in prayer and share it with someone else—gratitude grows when it’s expressed.
Gratitude doesn’t deny pain—it anchors you in God’s presence and promises. You can be thankful for God’s faithfulness even while grieving what’s hard.
No. Gratitude is honest about reality but chooses to also see God’s grace and goodness within it.
Start with obedience, not emotion. Thankfulness often follows intentional practice—praying thanks, naming gifts, and remembering what God has done.
Gratitude redirects attention from fear and resentment to God’s care, which softens your heart and strengthens trust over time.
Write down three things you’re thankful for and thank God for them out loud—then text one person appreciation.
We're Here To Help Guide You & Answer Your Questions
If you’re feeling discouraged, stuck in negativity, or walking through a season where gratitude feels impossible, we’d love to help. Fill out the form below and someone from the Sonrise team will reach out to listen, pray with you, and help you take a next step toward joy rooted in Jesus.
We Saved A Seat For You
Church doesn’t have to be intimidating. At Sonrise, you can show up as you are, connect with people who get you, and leave knowing it was worth it. Our campus is located right where Santee, Lakeside and El Cajon come together. Join us this Sunday at 9:00 or 10:40 by visiting us at 8805 Magnolia Ave. Whenever you’re ready, we’ll be here.
Sonrise Church
Service Times:
- Sunday : 9:00 AM (1st Service)
- Sunday : 10:40 AM (2nd Service)