When I was a kid, my mother insisted I write a thank-you card for every birthday, Christmas, and graduation gift I got. As a rather ungrateful youth, I hated her policy, but now I understand why she wanted to instill a spirit of gratitude in my heart. Giving thanks not only is the right thing to do, but it also strengthens your relationship with the One who gave the gifts.

Imagine if you wrote a thank-you card to God for one of his gifts! James writes, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights” (James 1:17). Everything good and beautiful and funny and interesting and comforting and relaxing is from God. Everything that makes you smile and laugh and breathe a sigh of relief is from God. Every birthday wish from someone who cared enough to write. Every day you’re able to work and earn your daily bread. Every time the car starts, there’s food in the fridge, or you sleep through the night. Every friend who has time to talk. Every hug from your granddaughter. Every video of puppies. Every sin forgiven. Every transgression erased. Every mistake whisked out of his holy sight. Everything good is from God!

What could happen to our relationship with God if we paused to thank him for everything good around us? I have a hunch it would not only show him great honor but also make us love him more than ever before.

Give thanks today. You have been greatly gifted!