“Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate. By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.”
Hebrews 13:12, 15 (KJV)
Thanksgiving and praise are two powerful expressions in our relationship with God. While they often go hand in hand, they are not the same.
Thanksgiving is our heartfelt response to what God has done. It is the expression of gratitude for past blessings, victories, and mercies received. We thank God because we remember His faithfulness.
Praise, on the other hand, goes deeper, it is our response to who God is. It highlights His nature, character, and majesty. Praise doesn’t wait for results; it simply exalts Him for being God. Both thanksgiving and praise are essential, but each serves a unique purpose in our spiritual lives.
Christians sing songs of thanksgiving and worship to God from this understanding. At the center of our praise is redemption. The first and foremost reason believers give thanks is because of what God has done for us through Jesus Christ. Redemption is the new song of the believer.
Praise Begins With Christ
The foundation of thanksgiving in the life of a Christian is the finished work of Christ. He sanctified us with His own blood. That is why we are instructed to continually offer the sacrifice of praise, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name.
Praise is first not about melody for the believer. The content of our songs matters as much as the rhythm. Songs of praise should reflect the truth of our salvation, the power of God, and the hope we have in Christ. Every worship session should teach and reinforce sound doctrine.
Just like the sacrifices in the Old Testament had specifications, our praise must align with God’s standards. It must flow from our lips, from sincere hearts, and reflect the truth of our redemption.
“Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy.”
Psalm 107:2 (KJV)
The Example of David
King David gives us a rich example of how to offer true thanksgiving to God.
“Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases…”
Psalm 103:1–7 (KJV)
Notice how David begins his thanksgiving with forgiveness of sins, not with material blessings. This teaches us that the mindset of every believer should be this: salvation is the greatest gift we will ever receive! Every other blessing flows from that one eternal gift.
Thanksgiving in Prayer
Even when Jesus taught His disciples how to pray, He began with worship and reverence.
“After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.”
Matthew 6:9 (KJV)
Worship is not just something we do in church services, it is the way we begin every conversation with God. Praise sets the tone. Thanksgiving aligns our hearts with His will.
Giving Thanks Is God’s Will
God commands us to live lives filled with thanksgiving, no matter the season.
“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (KJV)
It is God’s will that thanksgiving be the default posture of the believer. Not just when we receive something from Him, but at all times. Gratitude should not be conditional, it should be continual.
The Power of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving does more than express gratitude. It releases power.
- When you give thanks, your heart is calmed and your mind is guarded.
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:7 (KJV)
“Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.” – Colossians 2:7 (KJV)
- In Scripture, we see that thanksgiving has tangible effects. In 2 Chronicles 20, praise led to victory in a battle. In Acts 16, Paul and Silas praised God in prison, and it led to a supernatural earthquake and their release.
Even though the New Testament focuses more on instruction than physical demonstration, that does not mean we cannot experience physical results. It simply reminds us that obedience is key. Sometimes, just practicing the protocol of praise is where the miracle begins.
A Lifestyle of Thanksgiving
Finally, we are reminded in Hebrews 13 that thanksgiving must be continual. The believer should not wait for blessings before praising God. Thanksgiving must become a lifestyle. A state of heart. A permanent attitude.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving and praise are not just emotional responses, they are spiritual disciplines. They are the protocols of the God kind. When we thank God for redemption, obey His instruction, and sing songs filled with truth, we align ourselves with His will. In return, we experience His peace, power, and presence.
Let your praise rise continually. Let your heart overflow with gratitude. Let your lips declare the goodness of God, not just for what He has done—but for who He is.
For more teachings on the supernatural life and Kingdom principles, explore the GRN Blog or join us every Sunday as we build our faith together.
