Bulletin Articles
Say “Thank You”
In his book Humility Practice: 27 Ways to Think Less of Yourself—and of Yourself Less, Jacob Hudgins reminds us of something profoundly simple: say “Thank you!”
Sometimes the smallest gestures—like expressing gratitude—can radically shift our perspective.
As Americans, we often battle the cultural narrative of being “self-made.” We’re taught to believe that economic success and personal achievement come solely from hard work and grit. And while diligence matters, this mindset can lead us to take all the credit and overlook the many ways others support us—through gifts, encouragement, kindness, and love. The result? We grow arrogant and self-absorbed.
Humility begins when we learn to say “thank you.”
I’m truly thankful—to God and to you—for the comfort and strength you’ve offered my family as we grieve the loss of my dad.
What’s the biblical connection?
Christians are a thankful people. Just look at how many times Paul calls us to give thanks in Colossians 3:15–17:
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
17 Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.
We give thanks because of the unity we share in Christ.
We give thanks as His word fills our hearts and spills over into our worship.
We give thanks in our daily work, recognizing that every good thing we do is made possible through Him.
This isn’t just a one-time act—it’s a way of life. In Colossians 2:7, Paul describes Christians as those who are “abounding in thanksgiving.”
But our gratitude isn’t only directed toward God. Scripture also teaches us to be thankful for others.
In 1 Timothy 2:1, Paul writes:
“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.”
Among the various kinds of prayers we offer, thanksgiving is one—and it includes giving thanks to God for others.
Gratitude doesn’t always come naturally. It’s a discipline.
Sometimes we forget. Sometimes pride gets in the way.
And sometimes we assume that others don’t need to be thanked for simply doing what’s expected.
But cultivating gratitude—toward God and toward people—is a powerful act of humility.
If you’re struggling to express thanks or finding it hard to be humble, you’re not alone. We’d love to help, pray with you, and walk alongside you.
Let’s be people who say “thank you.” And mean it.
