The Gift of Gratitude
The Daily Devotional
Friday, April 11, 2025
The Gift of Gratitude
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Introduction
In a world where we often hurry from one task to the next, it's easy to overlook the power of simple gratitude. The Apostle Paul's words in his letter to the Thessalonians are a gentle but firm reminder that giving thanks is not just a good habit—it's God's will for us. Gratitude transforms our hearts, our relationships, and even how we see our circumstances.
Reflection
In the late 1800s, a little girl named Hattie May Wyatt in Pennsylvania wanted to attend a small Sunday school but was turned away because it was too full. A pastor named Russell Conwell promised her that one day, there would be space for every child who wanted to come. Not long after, little Hattie died of an illness. Her parents found a purse under her pillow containing 57 cents and a note that said it was to help build a bigger church.
Pastor Conwell shared Hattie's story, and soon her small gift inspired a large donation drive. With those 57 cents as the seed, the congregation built what became Temple Baptist Church in Philadelphia, along with a hospital and eventually Temple University. It all started because someone saw and appreciated the small offering of a little girl.
Showing appreciation means more than saying “thank you”—it means recognizing the value of a person’s presence, effort, and love. It means honoring the heart behind the gift, no matter the size.
Application
Take a moment today to consider the people who bless your life—family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, or even a stranger who smiled at you on a rough day. Show your appreciation in a tangible way. Write a note, send a text, or speak a word of thanks. A simple act of appreciation can plant seeds that bloom into something greater than we imagine.
Conclusion
Appreciation reflects the heart of Christ. When we live with gratitude, we acknowledge the grace that sustains us and the people God places in our lives. May we live today with hearts open to thankfulness and voices ready to encourage.
Prayer
Gracious God, thank You for the people You have placed in our lives and for the blessings You pour out each day. Teach us to notice the good, to speak words of appreciation, and to be generous with our gratitude. May we never underestimate the power of a kind word or a thankful heart. Help us to reflect Your love by honoring those around us with appreciation and grace. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
