Thanksgiving is probably my favorite holiday! I get to enjoy family, football, and most importantly FOOD (especially my famous sweet potato pie, yum)! Nevertheless, would you consider yourself a thankful individual? With Thanksgiving being tomorrow, this is a great time to think about that question. After all, we are called to follow the life and teachings of Jesus, and His life and teachings were characterized by gratitude.

During Jesus’ ministry, He repeatedly declared His thanks to the Father. Before breaking the bread and fish to feed thousands of people, He paused to give thanks (Matthew 15:36). Before raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus stood at the tomb and thanked the Father for hearing the prayer that was about to be answered (John 11:41-42). And just hours before His death, Jesus expressed gratitude as He blessed the bread and wine of the new covenant (Mark 14:22-23).

How about you? Are you expressing thankfulness on a regular basis? Your life should be defined by it. However, becoming a thankful person is not a matter of self-effort. It is not merely about choosing to try and be more grateful. Instead, it is a daily decision to surrender control of your life to the Lord. Here is what I believe:

So what does it look like when Christ transforms you into a thankful individual? Here are 3 ways to recognize when you become a thankful person.

1. You will be filled with confidence in God and His will for your life.
   Knowing that He is working everything out for your good (Romans 8:28) and developing within you the priceless treasure of faith, you can respond with praise and thankfulness even in painful trials (1 Peter 1:6-7).
2. You will recognize God as the source of all good things.
   Contentment and peace will be apparent in your life because you will understand that whatever God chooses for you is best—whether much or little. Your gratefulness will be based not on externals but the joy of your relationship with Christ.
3. You will understand that a thankful person is a generous person.
   God wants His children, like flowing streams, to pass blessings on to others. Selfishness always stifles gratitude but giving increases it.

This year, do not let Thanksgiving Day be your only expression of gratitude. Choose to surrender your life to Christ, asking Him to give you a thankful heart. Then thank Him for His faithfulness in both good and hard times.

Have a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving!