A Guide to GratitudeSample

Giving in Gratitude

So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone. (v. 10)

On Thanksgiving Day we pause and reflect on God’s provision throughout another year, and his enduring faithfulness to us always. Families and friends gather for holiday meals, and often share the things they’re most thankful for. Thanksgiving is also a time when many people choose to bless those in need in their community by donating to a local food pantry or serving a meal to the residents of a nearby homeless shelter.

The Thanksgiving holiday inspires an expression of gratitude through giving, but hopefully for Christians this is not just an annual occurrence. According to Paul’s charge to the church in Galatia, we should give gratefully and “do good” (v. 10) every chance we get. In Galatians 6:6, believers are encouraged to “enter into a generous common life” in the community of faith (The Message).

It can be hard to exercise generosity toward others in seasons when our finances or time may be stretched. It may be tempting to hold our resources tightly when we’re fearful or uncertain. However, as believers in Jesus, we’re not called to that. When we remain steadfast through gifts of time, talent, and treasure, the fruit of faithfulness is a deeper reliance on God and, ultimately, a deeper gratitude for his good gifts to us. Paul’s encouragement is this: “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (v. 9).

As you pray, ask God to lead you to those in need of your unique gifts.