5 Practical Tips to Show Thanks

Tis the season of giving thanks, but what are some ways that we can we actually do that?

Don’t underestimate the power of the words ‘Thank You.’ We often feel that we have to perform grand gestures of thanks, but two simple words mean a lot. Here are some everyday, real, practical ways you can show thanks…both to those around you and to God.

1. Send a card or leave a handwritten note.

In today’s world of texts, emails, tweets, and tags, seeing your handwriting will really touch the recipient. Try keeping thank you cards or a notepad with you. Tuck them in your desk drawer or car’s glove box. You never know when the feeling will strike you to say a simple thank you. If cards are readily available, you’ll be more likely to act on it. 

2. Make eye contact when you verbally say thank you.

Saying it as you walk away is passive and will be forgotten. Looking someone right in the eye as you express gratitude will stick with them. A smile doesn’t hurt either.

3. Always be generous with your financial ‘tip,’ but don’t be afraid to write a note as well if someone has blessed you with good service.

If it’s a place where financial tips aren’t received or expected, bring a genuine, verbal thank you to the person anyway. Money isn’t always what speaks to a person’s heart.

4. Start your prayers with genuine thanks before you ‘ask’ God for anything.

This will get your heart in the right place. Then, walk around throughout the day looking for things you’re thankful for and call them out loud to God in the moment.

5. Keep a record of things you’re grateful for.

Throughout your day, you might come across blessings big and small…try writing them down! It’s easy to forget the ways God intercedes and provides for us, but writing them down ensures we remember. You could use a notebook or the notes app on your phone. Then, at the end of the day, you’ll have a list to pray over and thank God for!

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 reminds us that giving thanks is Biblical. In fact, it states it’s “God’s will for us in Christ Jesus.” We pray that these five tips are a blessing to you and bring you closer to God as you live a life of thankfulness!

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18