Scripture: “Give thanks in all circumstances…” —1 Thessalonians 5:18
Focus Thought: It’s okay that gratitude feels difficult—Jesus meets you there.


When Thankfulness Doesn’t Come Naturally

We often imagine that thankfulness is supposed to be effortless—especially in a season filled with reminders to “be grateful.” But Scripture never asks us to pretend. In fact, much of the Bible’s gratitude rises out of darkness, not comfort. David gives thanks while fleeing for his life. Mary sings her Magnificat under oppression. Paul praises God from a prison cell.

Biblical gratitude is not denial. It’s the courageous act of turning toward God in the middle of whatever is real.Being Honest With God

Christian mystics like Julian of Norwich and Teresa of Ávila teach that the spiritual life begins with truthfulness. Richard Rohr echoes this: “Everything belongs—even your sadness, confusion, and fatigue.”

God does not require you to feel okay.
Jesus simply says: “Come to me.” (Matt. 11:28)

Sometimes the most faithful prayer is:
“Lord, I don’t feel thankful today—but I’m here.”

Contemplative Practice: Welcoming Prayer

Take a quiet moment.
Name what you’re feeling—without judgment.

“Jesus, I welcome You into my fear.”
“Jesus, meet me in my exhaustion.”
“Jesus, be near in my grief.”

This simple prayer opens the heart gently. Gratitude grows not by force, but by presence.

When You Can’t Give Thanks, Jesus Gives Thanks for You

On the night He was betrayed, Jesus took bread and gave thanks (Luke 22:19). He offered gratitude in the very moment suffering was closing in.

This means something astonishing:
When you cannot find gratitude, Jesus offers His on your behalf.

Your worth is not measured by how grateful you feel.
Your belonging doesn’t vanish on the days your heart feels heavy.
Christ holds you, even when you feel empty.

Daily Reflection

Take one quiet breath.
Ask yourself:

Where did I sense God today—even faintly?

If all you can say is, “I made it through,” that is enough.

Gratitude begins small.
Grace always meets us where we are.
And Jesus walks with us—even when thankfulness feels far away.

Prayer

Jesus, You know my heart.
You know the places where I feel numb, tired, or overwhelmed.
Teach me to meet You in honesty, not performance.
Grow in me a gratitude rooted in Your presence, not my circumstances.
And when I cannot give thanks, thank You that You hold me anyway.
Amen.