I have been feeling very thankful lately. And I’ve noticed that I’ve been feeling closer to the Lord as well. Feeling closer to and having a more intimate relationship to Jesus is what most Christians long for. I know I do. So, what does the Bible say about the connection? Is thankfulness a way to feel closer to God? I believe it does:

Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by power and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus,”

Psalm 100:4-5 says, "Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations."

Why do we want to be thankful? Because there’s fruit of a thankful heart:

• A thankful heart takes our eyes off ourselves.
• A thankful heart makes worry and doubt decrease…and strength, trust, joy, and peace increase.
• A thankful heart fosters spiritual growth.
• A thankful heart helps us recognize all that we actually have.
• A thankful heart reminds us that God is the source of all that is good.
• A thankful heart is a grateful heart.
• A thankful heart helps us pray.
• A thankful heart reminds us that we’re not in control.
• A thankful heart draws us closer to Him.

What a great time of the year to remember thankfulness. May we each press into Him with a thankful heart this Spring and let the fruit of it overflow. We have a lot to be thankful for.