October 3, 2025

What the Bible Says About Gratitude

What does the Bible say about gratitude? Read Bible verses about what it means to be thankful in your Christian walk.

What does it mean to show gratitude? According to Merriam-Webster, “gratitude” is the state of being grateful or thankfulness. Each of us have so many things to be grateful for, from our homes to our children. And as Christians, we should overflow with thankfulness over what God has done for us too.

These Bible verses below illustrate the importance of gratitude in our Christian walk and what it means to be thankful to God.

All Scriptures are written in NIV unless otherwise noted.

8 Bible Verses About Gratitude in the Christian Life

Gratitude is a Christian value all of us should practice as we walk with God. In fact, the Bible teaches us that gratitude is critical to our faith.

1. Philippians 4:6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

2. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

3. Colossians 2:6-7

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

4. Colossians 3:15

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

5. Matthew 5:16

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

6. Colossians 4:2

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

7. 1 Timothy 4:4-5

For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.

8. James 1:2-4

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

A young African girl holds up a sign that says merci
Photo by: Jonathan D Clement

14 Bible Verses About Showing Gratitude to God

Take a moment to consider everything God has done for you. Then, take another moment to thank him. He deserves our gratitude!

1. 2 Corinthians 4:15

All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.

2. 1 Corinthians 15:57

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

3. 1 Chronicles 16:34

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

4. 2 Corinthians 9:15

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

5. Jonah 2:9

But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, “Salvation comes from the Lord.”

6. 1 Samuel 12:24

But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.

7. Psalm 147:7

Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp.

8. 1 Chronicles 16:8

Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done.

9. Psalm 28:7

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.

10. Colossians 3:17

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

11. Psalm 9:1

I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.

12. Psalm 69:30

I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving.

13. Hebrews 12:28-29

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reference and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire.”

14. Psalm 107:21-22

Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. Let them sacrifice thank offerings and tell of his works with songs of joy.

We’re Thankful for Supporters Like You

Here at Compassion International, we feel such gratitude for our supporters who join us in the fight against poverty.

Each day, we pour our efforts into restoring hope for the most vulnerable around the world through child sponsorship. And we’re so grateful for everyone who joins us in this endeavor. Together, we’re changing lives, one child at a time.

A young boy sits on concrete steps while holding a sign that says thankful.

Change a Life. Sponsor a Child.

You can join us in changing a child’s life by becoming a sponsor. When you sponsor, you deliver the practical and spiritual care a child needs to thrive.