Gratitude isn’t just an act; it’s a posture of the heart. In his timeless song, “Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart,” Henry Smith reminds us of the profound simplicity of giving thanks. It’s more than words sung in worship; it’s a declaration of faith in God’s provision and love, even when circumstances seem uncertain.
Scripture constantly calls us to gratitude. Paul, writing to the Thessalonians, exhorts, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). It’s a radical concept: gratitude that isn’t dependent on our external situation but flows from the internal assurance of God’s goodness.
But how do we cultivate a grateful heart when life feels messy or overwhelming? Let’s look at three ways this song teaches us to live out a life of thanksgiving.
1. Remember What God Has Done
The song begins with the words, “Give thanks to the Holy One because He’s given Jesus Christ, His Son.” At the core of our gratitude is the unchanging truth of God’s ultimate gift: Jesus. Through His life, death, and resurrection, we have forgiveness, freedom, and hope.
David’s psalms overflow with similar declarations of thanksgiving. Psalm 103:2 says, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” When we reflect on the cross and the daily mercies of God, our hearts are lifted above life’s challenges, filled instead with awe and gratitude.
2. Trust God in the Mess
The lyrics continue, “And now, let the weak say, ‘I am strong,’ let the poor say, ‘I am rich,’ because of what the Lord has done for us.” These words echo Joel 3:10 and 2 Corinthians 12:9, where Paul declares that God’s strength is made perfect in weakness.
Gratitude is an act of trust. When we thank God amid trials, we proclaim that His promises are more real than our pain. We declare that we believe Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.”
3. Live Gratefully, Love Generously
A grateful heart doesn’t just receive—it overflows. When we live in thanksgiving, we bless others with our words, actions, and attitudes. Hebrews 13:15 reminds us, “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess His name.”
Gratitude fuels generosity. When we truly grasp what God has done for us, it naturally leads us to give, serve, and love others in response.
Conclusion
As we reflect on “Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart,” let it inspire us to live lives marked by thanksgiving—not just in November or on Sunday mornings but every day. Let’s give thanks not because life is perfect but because God is faithful.
Take a moment today to pause and reflect. What are you grateful for? In the words of the psalmist, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1).
Charlie Wear's Notes 
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