Reading through the scriptures, especially the Psalms, we can see the emphasis that the Lord has placed on our need to be thankful. We’re to give thanks because He is good (1Chronicles 16:8). We are to give thanks because His steadfast love endures forever (1 Chronicles 16:35) and “because of His wonderful deeds (Psalm 9:1). We can be thankful in testimonies of His goodness or in songs of praise,

Others will hear it and be taught by it (this is why we are to tell of His wondrous works to the next generation). But, is this something that we model in our daily lives, regardless of who is in the room?

The Psalms give many instructions for giving thanks. It would appear we are to give thanks:

• Before unbelievers: Therefore I will give thanks to You, O LORD, among the Gentiles, And sing praises to Your name. Psalms 18:49 (NKJV)                                                                                                                        I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations. Psalm 57:9 (ESV)

• Before our brothers and sisters in the Lord: Sing praises to the LORD, O you his saints, and give thanks to his holy name. Psalm 30:4 (ESV)                                                                                                                                       I will thank you in the great congregation, in the mighty throng I will praise you. Psalm 35:18 (ESV)

• Within the family:                                                          But we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will give thanks to you forever; from generation to generation we will recount your praise. Psalm 79:13

The next generation learns to be thankful when they learn of the goodness, the steadfast love, and the mercy and grace of God. When we are willing to “make known His deeds” (Psalm 105:1) and “proclaim His might to another generation,” (Psalm 71:18) we are “showing” them how to be thankful.

More importantly, we must intentionally teach them “why” they must be thankful. We are to be proclaiming what God is doing on a daily basis. Even in the difficult times, we can point out the blessings. He does give blessings.

When we see blessings but we presume on the kindness of God, thinking we have brought them, caused them, or deserve them, we fail to see God’s glory and generosity. By neglecting to praise God we neglect to tell others, even our children and grandchildren, where the blessings come from.

Children learn what they live. If a child consistently sees a thankful role model, that child will learn to be thankful.

When we are thankful for our spouses, and live accordingly, cherishing and serving them with gratitude, blessings will also flow from our behavior and probably from theirs. This, again, is a model for our children and grandchildren.

We can also show our gratitude to those who teach us and those who love us enough to be truthful with us regarding the things of God (including our pastors).

We can take opportunities to be thankful for our ability to work, to earn an income, and for the employer that writes the check.

God tells us repeatedly to be thankful and to be thankful in all circumstances. He blesses obedience. Even when things seem hard or next to impossible, God will bless us with His presence, His wisdom, His guidance, and His assurance that He is with us. Yet, we will only see these blessings if we are looking for them. There are no limits to the love or blessings of God on His children who trust Him to keep His promises and remember to thank Him.