“Gratitude doesn’t just change our outlook; it influences our actions to be more generous.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – October 6, 2025
What should I give to the Lord for all the good things He has done for me? Psalm 116:12, NLV
Reflecting this morning on the beauty of this Psalm, I asked myself, “What should I give to the Lord for all the things He has done for me?” In other words, flowing from deep, abiding gratitude, what do you give to someone who has everything? Upon closer examination, the previous verses provide the context for this question; the Psalmist is overflowing with praise to God for answered prayer, His presence during a near-death experience, and soul care. Can you relate? I can. But I also realize I may take answered prayer, divine protection, and spiritual renewal from my Heavenly Father for granted. However, when we pause to reflect on the Lord’s goodness specifically tailored to our lives, there is unquestionably reason for great gratitude—gratitude that is first offered to our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ and second expressed through giving to and serving others.
The second half of Psalm 116 clearly emphasizes that generosity flows from gratitude. Thankfulness for God’s mercy (answered prayer), grace (His sustaining presence), and love (soul care) leads to generous worship and praise, joyful obedience, and an attractive witness. Gratitude is the root, and generosity is the fruit. When you’ve been desperate for an answer and God actually shows up—when you’ve felt His presence holding you together during your darkest moments, and realize He’s been caring for your soul in ways you didn’t even notice—something inside shifts. Your heart opens wide with thankfulness. You can’t help but respond. Worship pours out because you’ve truly experienced something real. Obedience no longer feels like a duty but an eager response. Your life becomes a testimony, not to impress others, but because you can’t stay quiet about what He’s done. A grateful heart naturally turns into a generous one. Gratitude draws out the sweet nectar—then generosity transforms it into delicious honey.
Gratitude turns everyday moments into generous acts of kindness. A parent who appreciates their child’s teacher might bring coffee to parent conferences. A neighbor grateful for borrowed tools often returns them with homemade cookies. An employee thankful for flexible work options may stay late when needed. A friend who remembers being helped during illness might bring soup for others. Practicing thankfulness daily creates a cycle—recognizing kindness makes us more compassionate, and receiving grace makes us more gracious. Gratitude doesn’t just change our outlook; it influences our actions to be more generous. Cultivate this mindset of loving ministry.
How do you cultivate a grateful and generous way of life? Like the Psalmist, begin by spending generous time with the one who brings blessings into your life. In silence and solitude, the Holy Spirit will reveal His many blessings for you to remember and rejoice in. Henri Nouwen says, “In solitude we discover that our life is not a possession to be defended but a gift to be shared.” Yes, indeed, I don’t have to give my life away; I get to give my life away, as Paul reminds us, “As a living sacrifice of worship to God and in service to others” (Romans 12:1). Look up in grateful worship, then look around with generous love and service to others in Jesus’ name.
“Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God that he has given you” (Deuteronomy 16:17).
Prayer
Lord, I thank You for every gift in my life. Out of my gratitude, let generosity flow freely, that others may experience Your love, provision, and grace through me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
Ask the Lord to show you where gratitude and generosity intersect in your life right now.
Related Reading
Luke 19:8-9; 2 Corinthians 9:11-12; Colossians 3:15-17; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Worship Resource
Elevation Worship feat. Brandon Lake, Chris Brown & Chandler Moore: Praise
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