Cultivating an Attitude of Thanksgiving

How’d you do? Did you think of 10 things? Most of us, even on our worst days, can brainstorm at least 10 blessings. But this simple exercise can change our whole attitude from one of selfishness or negativity to one of thanksgiving.

The idea to switch our focus from ourselves or our circumstances to God and his blessings isn’t anything new. The Bible is full of verses that admonish us to do this.

Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! (1 Chronicles 16:34)

I will give to the LORD the thanks due to his righteousness, and I will sing praise to the name of the LORD, the Most High. (Psalm 7:17)

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18)

One great way to start class on Sunday morning is to challenge your students to name 10 things they’re grateful for. Then include their list in the opening prayer as you or student volunteers thank God for those things.

Another fun “Come On In” activity is to have students search for key words like “thanks,” “thanksgiving,” or “thankful” in their Bible’s index or in a Bible app. Then have them take turns reading the verses they find.

Christians should be characterized by an attitude of thanksgiving, both to God and others. Prayer is the main way to express our gratefulness to God. Use the Attributes of God poster to remind your class of who God is and what he has given us. Consider taking time for students to write a thank-you note or have younger students make cards as a craft activity to thank someone who has helped them in some way. Pastors, church staff, teachers, and family members would all be encouraged by a note of thanks. Help your students put thanksgiving into practice!

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

For more Thanksgiving ideas, check out the free Thanksgiving lessons at AnswersBibleCurriculum.com.