What Does the Bible Say About Thanksgiving — In Biblical Context
The Bible commands believers to give thanks to God in all circumstances as an act of faith and worship.
The Bible commands believers to give thanks to God in all circumstances as an act of faith and worship.
"Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name." — Psalm 100:4 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
Thanksgiving is woven throughout Scripture — from the Psalms of praise to Paul's exhortations. The Levites were appointed to give thanks daily. Jesus gave thanks before breaking bread. Paul instructs believers to give thanks in everything (1 Thessalonians 5:18) and to let thanksgiving overflow (Colossians 2:7). Thanksgiving is an antidote to complaining and a declaration of trust in God's goodness regardless of circumstances.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Psalm 100:4, sits inside Psalms 100. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name."
Supporting Passages
"In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
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