It is good to give thanks to God. But it is even better to give thanks promptly. Too often, we delay our gratitude, waiting for special moments or bigger blessings. However, the Bible encourages us to be immediate and intentional in our thanksgiving. One powerful example of this is found in the story of the ten lepers in Luke 17:11-19.
These ten men cried out to Jesus for mercy, and He instructed them to show themselves to the priests. As they went, they were healed. Yet, only one of the ten returned immediately to thank Jesus, falling at His feet and glorifying God. Jesus remarked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?” (Luke 17:17-18). The promptness of this leper’s gratitude stands out, making his action significant enough to be recorded in scripture.
Prompt thanksgiving has significant spiritual benefits. Here are three important reasons why thanking God without delay should be a regular part of our walk with Him:
- Prompt Thanksgiving Keeps Us Conscious of God’s Constant Help
It’s easy to become distracted by life’s demands and forget God’s daily mercies. Prompt thanksgiving keeps us aware that every good thing we experience, no matter how small, comes from God. Psalm 46:1 reminds us that “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” When we thank God immediately for even the little victories, we stay conscious of His constant presence in our lives. As the old hymn says, “Count your blessings, name them one by one.” By doing so, we guard against forgetting how dependent we are on God’s grace.
- Prompt Thanksgiving Helps Us Remember the Details of God’s Miracles
The longer we delay our gratitude, the more likely we are to forget the details of God’s works. But when we thank God right away, we can recount the specifics of each miracle. Psalm 103:2 urges us: “Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” When we cultivate an attitude of prompt thanksgiving, we become better equipped to testify of God’s goodness to others. Sharing our testimony with accuracy and sincerity helps others to see God’s hand in their own lives, thus encouraging their faith.
- Prompt Thanksgiving Highlights the Small Miracles
Sometimes, we wait for dramatic signs before we give thanks, but God is also in the small moments. Prompt thanksgiving opens up our eyes to the everyday blessings that we might otherwise overlook. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 instructs us to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Whether it’s protection on the road, provision for a need, or peace during stress, thanking God immediately for these “small” blessings helps us cultivate a heart of gratitude that enriches our spiritual life.
Has God blessed you today? Don’t wait—give Him thanks now. Just like the leper who returned immediately, let’s cultivate a habit of prompt thanksgiving, recognizing God’s goodness in every moment.
to be continued…
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