Thank You

by Jonsal Barrientes

Over the past few years, I’ve repeatedly read about the science behind the power of gratitude and its effects on the human mind when practiced regularly. Studies have shown improvements in psychological well-being and physical health from simple gratitude practices. Your prayer life matters not only to God but also for your good. I believe that was intentional in how we were created, not only to help regulate our nervous system but to recenter us back to the way God designed us to live. As a worship leader, I can become accustomed to the theme of thanksgiving and almost become too familiar with the phrase “thank you Jesus” without truly understanding the meaning behind it or why we say it.

Colossians 3:16 (NASB) says,

“Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”

That’s clear as day, and it’s the essence of our assignment as Christians. God wants us to enrich our lives through His word, let it dwell within us in all of our day-to-day actions, and sing about it. That means when you feel life start to shift your attention and focus, if you sense your heart being discouraged, worship and thank God. He will realign you and make you whole. What an amazing God!

There is a line in the song “Thank You” that says, “for the wonders You’ve done and the wonders You’re still going to do, thank you.” I’m moved to tears almost instantly when I stop to remember the “wonders he’s done,” but there are also times when I’m waiting on a miracle or the “wonders He’s still going to do” and don’t always feel full of faith. In Matthew 6:6 (NIV), I love the verse that says “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” That truth takes me right back to that phrase “and the wonders you’re still going to do.” I’m overwhelmed with the sense that God’s goodness and promise will never fail me. He will complete his promises. I want to encourage you, if you’re feeling like you’re on the last bit of hope or faith, to pray and practice gratitude.

If you find yourself waiting on a miracle today, I want to encourage you with Philippians 4:6 (NIV), “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Don’t rehearse what God hasn’t done in your life, but reflect on God's goodness and watch it change your life.

Prayer

Father, thank You for the way You designed me—that even my body finds rest when my heart finds gratitude. Today, I choose to stop rehearsing what I lack and start reflecting on Your goodness. Realign my soul as I bring my requests to You, trusting that the wonders You’ve done are only the beginning of what You are still going to do. Amen.