Have we lost the attitude of being thankful? Or maybe we are thankful but have lost the actual ability to say those simple words out loud “Thank You!” They are powerful words and to neglect to say them is a failure to recognise the giver.

I’m reminded of stage actors who, at the curtain call not only bow to the audience but raise their hands to acknowledge the often-unseen participants. The success of a stage production is not just the actors but those behind the scenes such as stagehands, technicians, costume designers and musicians. That raised open hand often directed backstage is one big way in which the actors can say to them… “Thank You”.

As Christians we express our praise and adoration of God as we lift our voices in worship. But there is a difference between praise and thanksgiving even though they often seem as one expression of our hearts. We can and should praise God for who He is but also thank Him for what He has done.

It is interesting that The Hebrew word for thanksgiving means the extension of the hand. It becomes a natural human response in worship to find ourselves wanting to lift our hands. That open hand directed toward God is yes, praise, but it is also the time for giving Him our sincere and heartfelt thanks… THANKSGIVING!

Remembering to say “Thank You” is so important in our everyday life. A familiar adage even from childhood, but worth re discovering in adulthood. Whatever the situation let us remember the power of a sincere “Thank You” …it helps to build relationships.

In the spiritual context let us to keep thanking God for who He is and what He does. He is GOOD and His love never fails.

Ref. Psalm 100:4-5, 1 Th 5:16-18 NIV.