"And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God, 16 and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks. And he was a Samaritan.” - Luke 17:15-16 NKJV Thanksgiving is defined as the act or expressions of deep gratitude – especially to God. However, …
“And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God, 16 and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks. And he was a Samaritan.”
– Luke 17:15-16 NKJV
Thanksgiving is defined as the act or expressions of deep gratitude – especially to God. However, beyond that, it is a test of our spiritual civility. It is one way to recognize compliant citizens in the kingdom of God.
In Luke 17, ten lepers cried out to Jesus for healing, and He instructed them to go and show themselves to the priests. As they obeyed, they were healed. However, only one of them, a Samaritan, returned to thank Jesus. Jesus’ response was profound: “Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine?” Luke 17:17.
This question exposes the sad reality that on a regular basis, many receive blessings but fail the test of gratitude. By returning, this leper demonstrated spiritual etiquette and recognized that his healing was not by chance but by divine mercy.
We often spend days, weeks, or even years praying for breakthroughs, healing, protection, provision, direction and open doors. We repeatedly beckon God to intervene in our situation. But when the answer comes, do we match our gratitude with the intensity of our request? Do we take time to return to God with thanksgiving, just as we spent time asking Him?
Thanksgiving is not optional; it is an act of honor. Psalm 50:23 states, “Whoever offers praise glorifies Me.” Every blessing from God is an opportunity to glorify Him, and failing to return in thanksgiving makes us spiritual rebels rather than grateful children.
Thanksgiving is not optional; it is an act of honor.
There are different ways to express thanksgiving:
- Through Prayer – “My heart rejoices in the Lord.” 1 Samuel 2:1-2
- Through Songs – “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” Psalm 136:1
- Through Testimonies – “I will declare Your name to my brethren.” Psalm 22:21-22
- Through Offerings – “He built an altar to the Lord and offered sacrifices.” 2 Chronicles 33:16
- Through Lifted Hands – A sign of surrender and worship. Nehemiah 8:6
Thanksgiving should never be coerced; it should flow freely from a heart that recognizes the goodness of God. As believers, we must cultivate the habit of returning to give thanks, acknowledging that of all possible outcomes, God has chosen to bless us.
Today, think about your attitude towards thanksgiving. Have you been civil or have you been rebellious? Have you ever been guilty of failing to return to God in thanksgiving after an answered prayer?
Song of Worship
I am grateful Oh Lord 2x
For all you have done for me
I am grateful Oh Lord.
Prayer – Lord, help me not to be like the nine lepers who forgot to return in gratitude. Teach me to always acknowledge Your blessings with thanksgiving, knowing that it is a sign of honor and spiritual maturity. Amen.
Bible in 1 year: 2 Chronicles 34-36; John 19
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