What a beautiful reminder of God’s goodness through 40+ Bible Verses About Thanksgiving! These verses offer comfort, encouragement, and a powerful sense of peace for anyone seeking spiritual strength and a grateful heart. They help us stay grounded in faith and recognize God’s love in every season of life.
Thanksgiving, in a biblical sense, goes beyond a single day—it’s an attitude of worship and trust. While the Bible may not directly describe modern traditions, it richly teaches the value of giving thanks in all circumstances.
This collection of verses reflects that wisdom, offering messages of hope and faith to inspire your walk with God. Each scripture invites a deeper connection with Him and leads into a life filled with gratitude.
What Does the Bible Say About Thanksgiving?
The Bible speaks powerfully about thanksgiving, encouraging believers to give thanks in all circumstances. It reminds us that gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a spiritual practice that draws us closer to God. From the Old Testament to the New, thanksgiving is a consistent theme that shows our dependence on His goodness.
In Psalms, we often see King David giving thanks even in times of trouble. This teaches us that gratitude isn’t limited to moments of joy. Instead, it’s a way of expressing trust in God’s plan, even when life feels uncertain. Giving thanks shifts our focus from problems to God’s faithfulness.
The New Testament emphasizes thanksgiving as a way to live daily. Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God…” This means that thankfulness isn’t optional—it’s part of God’s will for His people. A thankful heart leads to a peaceful and content life.
Overall, the Bible links thanksgiving with worship, prayer, and trust. Whether we’re thanking God for blessings or showing faith during trials, gratitude deepens our relationship with Him. It reminds us that every good thing comes from above and that God is always worthy of praise.
The List of 40+ Bible Verses About Thanksgiving
1. The Importance of Giving Thanks in the Bible
Purpose:
This section emphasizes the significance of thanksgiving in the Bible. It reflects on how giving thanks is not just a form of gratitude but an act of reverence, worship, and faith that draws us closer to God.
📖 Psalm 100:4
“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.”
Explanation:
This verse highlights that thanksgiving is the gateway to God’s presence. It teaches that we should approach God with hearts full of gratitude and praise. When we enter God’s presence, our thanks are an offering that allows us to connect with Him. This act of worship is a key part of honoring God for who He is and all that He does.
📖 1 Thessalonians 5:18
“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
Explanation:
This verse stresses the importance of giving thanks in all situations. It highlights that gratitude should not be selective or circumstantial. No matter the challenges we face, we are called to thank God, because doing so acknowledges His sovereignty and control. Thanksgiving transforms our perspective, allowing us to trust in God’s plans for our lives.
📖 Philippians 4:6
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”
Explanation:
Here, Paul encourages us to present our requests to God in prayer, but with a heart of thanksgiving. This act of gratefulness in prayer not only strengthens our faith but also brings peace. Instead of worrying, we are to trust in God’s ability to handle our concerns, with the assurance that He hears and cares for us.
📖 Colossians 3:15
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”
Explanation:
Thanksgiving is directly tied to peace in this verse. When we live with a thankful heart, we allow God’s peace to govern our lives. Gratitude shifts our focus from our struggles to God’s faithfulness, resulting in peace that surpasses understanding. It also promotes unity within the body of Christ, as we express our shared gratitude.
📖 Psalm 106:1
“Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever.”
Explanation:
This verse emphasizes that God’s goodness and mercy are eternal. Thanksgiving is not just a response to temporary blessings, but a recognition of God’s unwavering goodness. His mercy, which is endless, deserves continuous gratitude. Acknowledging this in our hearts allows us to live in perpetual thanksgiving.
📖 Hebrews 13:15
“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.”
Explanation:
This verse teaches that thanksgiving is an ongoing act of worship. It encourages us to continually offer praise, even in difficult circumstances. This “sacrifice of praise” shows our trust in God’s goodness, even when life is challenging. Grateful words have the power to uplift our spirits and honor God, offering true praise.
📖 Psalm 95:2
“Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.”
Explanation:
This verse calls us to enter God’s presence with joy and thanksgiving. Gratitude is an essential part of our worship, and it should be expressed joyfully. Whether through singing, praying, or speaking, the act of thanksgiving glorifies God and brings us closer to Him.
📖 2 Corinthians 9:15
“Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.”
Explanation:
Paul acknowledges God’s indescribable gift, referring to the salvation through Jesus Christ. This verse encourages us to give thanks for God’s ultimate gift—Jesus. The magnitude of God’s love and sacrifice calls for eternal gratitude, inspiring us to live with a heart of thankfulness for what He has done.
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2. Thanksgiving as a Command from God
Purpose:
This section addresses the idea that thanksgiving is not just a suggestion but a command from God. It teaches that obedience to God’s command to give thanks leads to blessings and a deeper relationship with Him.
📖 Psalm 107:1
“O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever.”
Explanation:
This verse makes it clear that thanksgiving is a command. God’s goodness and mercy are everlasting, and we are called to acknowledge them through thanksgiving. This verse serves as a reminder that gratitude is a fitting response to God’s eternal goodness and faithfulness.
📖 Ephesians 5:20
“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Explanation:
Paul commands believers to give thanks in all situations, whether we are experiencing prosperity or adversity. This directive shows that gratitude should be an integral part of our lives. It reflects our trust in God’s sovereignty, acknowledging that everything—good or bad—is within His will for us.
📖 Psalm 118:1
“O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: because his mercy endureth forever.”
Explanation:
In this verse, we see the command to give thanks again, tied to God’s unchanging goodness and mercy. Thanksgiving is an appropriate response to God’s eternal love, and we are called to offer it in every season of life. The repetition of this command highlights its importance in our relationship with God.
📖 1 Chronicles 16:34
“O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth forever.”
Explanation:
This verse echoes the truth that God is always good, and His mercy is endless. By giving thanks, we recognize and celebrate His goodness and the mercy He extends to us daily. It encourages a heart posture of gratitude that does not fade with time or circumstances.
📖 Colossians 3:17
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”
Explanation:
This verse teaches that everything we do should be done with a thankful heart. Whether through actions or words, we should express gratitude in all things. This is not only a command but also a way to honor God in every part of our lives, reflecting His goodness in our daily actions.
📖 Revelation 7:12
“Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor, and power, and might, be unto our God forever and ever. Amen.”
Explanation:
In this verse, the heavenly hosts give thanks to God, acknowledging His greatness. It teaches us that thanksgiving is not just an earthly practice but a heavenly one. By giving thanks to God, we join in the eternal worship of God, recognizing His power, glory, and goodness.
📖 Luke 17:15-16
“And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.”
Explanation:
This passage shows the importance of returning to give thanks after receiving blessings. The healed Samaritan expresses gratitude openly, teaching us that we should always acknowledge God for His works in our lives. Giving thanks is an act of faith and humility, reflecting a heart that recognizes God’s grace.
📖 1 Timothy 4:4
“For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving.”
Explanation:
This verse teaches us to view all that God has created as good and worthy of gratitude. By receiving God’s gifts with thanksgiving, we acknowledge His goodness in providing for our needs. Gratitude turns ordinary moments into acts of worship, recognizing that all things come from God.
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3. Thanksgiving as a Heart Posture Toward God
Purpose:
This section highlights the attitude of the heart required for genuine thanksgiving. It emphasizes that true gratitude flows from a heart of humility, recognizing God’s goodness, love, and provision in every area of life.
📖 Psalm 9:1
“I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works.”
Explanation:
True thanksgiving comes from a heart fully devoted to God. The psalmist expresses a wholehearted commitment to praising God for all His wonderful deeds. This verse teaches us that our gratitude should not be partial or superficial but should encompass every aspect of our being. Genuine thanksgiving involves praising God with sincerity and total dedication.
📖 1 Chronicles 16:8
“Give thanks unto the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people.”
Explanation:
This verse teaches that thanksgiving involves more than just words; it’s an active expression of gratitude. By calling upon God’s name and sharing His deeds, we acknowledge His greatness publicly. Thanksgiving becomes a testimony, not only in our hearts but also in our actions, declaring His goodness to others.
📖 Matthew 15:36
“And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.”
Explanation:
In this moment, Jesus demonstrates thanksgiving before a miracle happens. He gives thanks for the provisions He had, even though they seemed insufficient. This shows that gratitude should be expressed in faith, trusting that God can work wonders even with what we have. Thanksgiving, in this instance, is an act of trust in God’s provision.
📖 Psalm 50:14
“Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High.”
Explanation:
Here, the psalmist calls us to offer thanksgiving as an act of devotion. Gratitude is not just about verbal acknowledgment but about a life of obedience and dedication to God’s commands. True thanksgiving also involves fulfilling our promises to God, acknowledging that He deserves our best in both praise and action.
📖 2 Samuel 22:50
“Therefore I will give thanks unto thee, O Lord, among the heathen, and I will sing praises unto thy name.”
Explanation:
This verse emphasizes that thanksgiving should be a public expression. David promises to give thanks and sing praises to God among the nations. It shows that gratitude is not something to keep to ourselves but is meant to be shared with others, testifying of God’s goodness to all people.
📖 Hebrews 13:15
“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.”
Explanation:
In this verse, thanksgiving is portrayed as a continual offering of praise. It reflects an attitude of gratitude that is unwavering and constant, regardless of circumstances. It teaches that our hearts should be perpetually thankful, and our words should consistently honor God for His goodness.
📖 Jonah 2:9
“But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed.”
Explanation:
In the midst of hardship, Jonah expresses thanksgiving as a sacrificial offering. Despite his circumstances, he recognizes God’s power and gives thanks. This demonstrates that gratitude is not only for times of abundance but is also essential during trials, offering praise to God in all seasons of life.
📖 Colossians 2:7
“Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.”
Explanation:
Thanksgiving is deeply connected to our faith in Christ. The verse teaches that as we grow in our relationship with God, our hearts should abound in gratitude. It speaks of a mature faith that, as it strengthens, naturally overflows with thanksgiving, becoming an integral part of our daily walk with God.
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4. The Relationship Between Thanksgiving and Blessings
Purpose:
This section explores how thanksgiving leads to blessings. It illustrates how God honors a thankful heart and how gratitude opens the door to even greater blessings in our lives.
📖 Psalm 67:5-6
“Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee. Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us.”
Explanation:
This passage shows the direct connection between praise and blessings. When we give thanks and praise God, it sets the stage for blessings to flow into our lives. Gratitude activates God’s favor, causing His blessings to overflow, not just for us, but for those around us. This shows that thanksgiving is not only a response but also a key to unlocking divine provision.
📖 Malachi 3:10
“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”
Explanation:
This verse speaks to the principle of giving and receiving, but it also shows how thanksgiving activates God’s blessings. When we give back to God, whether through tithes or grateful offerings, God promises to bless us abundantly. True thanksgiving is rooted in generosity, and it invites God’s provision into every area of our lives.
📖 Luke 6:38
“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”
Explanation:
This verse connects the act of giving with receiving, illustrating the abundant blessings that come when we give with a thankful heart. When we show gratitude through generosity, God promises that blessings will return to us, often beyond what we expect. Thanksgiving and generosity work together to unlock God’s provision.
📖 Deuteronomy 28:47-48
“Because thou servedst not the Lord thy God with joyfulness, and with gladness of heart, for the abundance of all things; Therefore shalt thou serve thine enemies which the Lord shall send against thee…”
Explanation:
This passage warns that not giving thanks and not serving God with joy leads to missed blessings. A thankful heart is a key to experiencing God’s abundant blessings. Without gratitude, we miss out on the fullness of what God has in store. This shows that thanksgiving is a foundational element in experiencing God’s favor and blessings.
📖 James 1:17
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
Explanation:
James reminds us that every blessing comes from God. Thanksgiving is a recognition of these gifts, acknowledging that all good things in life are from the Father. By giving thanks, we honor God as the source of all blessings, and in doing so, we invite more of His goodness into our lives.
📖 Proverbs 3:9-10
“Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.”
Explanation:
This passage connects thanksgiving with honoring God through our substance. By offering the firstfruits of our increase as an act of gratitude, we invite God’s blessing. Giving thanks through our possessions and offerings leads to greater abundance, as God rewards hearts of gratitude with blessings beyond measure.
📖 2 Corinthians 9:11
“Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.”
Explanation:
This verse shows that as we experience God’s blessings, we are enriched to be a blessing to others. Gratitude becomes a conduit for greater blessings. As we give thanks for what we’ve received, God entrusts us with more to share, making us vessels of His goodness and encouraging thanksgiving in others.
📖 Acts 20:35
“I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Explanation:
Jesus teaches that giving is a greater blessing than receiving. True thanksgiving manifests in how we bless others. By giving generously and supporting those in need, we not only reflect God’s love but also position ourselves to receive blessings from God, showing that thanksgiving is both an act of giving and receiving.
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5. Thanksgiving Leads to Peace and Joy
Purpose:
This section focuses on how thanksgiving brings peace and joy to the heart. By turning our attention to God’s goodness, gratitude shifts our focus from worries to trust in His divine peace and joy.
📖 Philippians 4:6-7
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Explanation:
In these verses, Paul teaches that thanksgiving, combined with prayer, is the key to experiencing God’s peace. When we offer our worries to God with a grateful heart, His peace guards us, protecting our hearts from anxiety. Thanksgiving opens the door to God’s peace, which is beyond human understanding and guards our emotions.
📖 Colossians 3:15
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”
Explanation:
Here, Paul highlights the importance of letting God’s peace reign in our hearts, and he connects it with thankfulness. Gratitude fosters an environment where God’s peace can rule, making us more receptive to His presence. Thanksgiving is the bridge to the tranquility that comes from knowing that God is in control, giving us joy even in the midst of challenges.
📖 Romans 14:17
“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”
Explanation:
This verse underscores that the kingdom of God is characterized by peace and joy, which are deeply rooted in thanksgiving. When we practice gratitude, we experience these fruits of the Holy Spirit. Thanksgiving shifts our focus from temporary things to eternal truths, bringing lasting joy and peace that come from God alone.
📖 Psalm 100:4
“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.”
Explanation:
The psalmist calls us to enter God’s presence with thanksgiving, which leads to an atmosphere of praise and joy. When we approach God with gratitude, it aligns our hearts to experience the joy of His presence. This verse teaches that thanksgiving is a gateway to experiencing God’s peace and joy, which renews our spirit.
📖 John 16:24
“Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.”
Explanation:
Jesus promises that when we ask in His name, we will receive, and our joy will be complete. Thanksgiving plays a role in this, as it aligns us with God’s will. By expressing gratitude for His promises, we open ourselves to receive His blessings, filling our hearts with joy and allowing His peace to rule over us.
📖 Nehemiah 8:10
“Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Explanation:
This passage highlights how thanksgiving brings strength and joy. Nehemiah encourages the people to rejoice and celebrate in God’s goodness. The joy that comes from being thankful in the Lord strengthens us and enables us to endure difficult circumstances. Gratitude becomes the source of our strength, renewing our spirit with God’s joy.
📖 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
Explanation:
Paul instructs believers to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in every circumstance. This constant attitude of gratitude brings peace and joy because it focuses on God’s will rather than our problems. Thanksgiving is not just a response to good circumstances but a way of life that brings peace and joy no matter the situation.
📖 Isaiah 61:3
“To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.”
Explanation:
God promises to exchange mourning for joy and heaviness for praise. Thanksgiving is the key that opens the door to this transformation. As we express gratitude, God fills us with joy that overcomes sadness and lifts our spirits. Through thanksgiving, our hearts are renewed, and we become witnesses to God’s glory and goodness.
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6. Thanksgiving Strengthens Our Faith
Purpose:
This section explores how thanksgiving strengthens our faith. Giving thanks in all situations, whether good or bad, builds trust in God’s sovereignty and helps us grow spiritually.
📖 1 Thessalonians 5:18
“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
Explanation:
This passage teaches that giving thanks in every situation strengthens our faith. When we thank God in times of difficulty, we demonstrate trust in His control over our lives. Gratitude helps build a firm foundation of faith, as we recognize God’s presence and provision in every circumstance, even the challenging ones.
📖 Hebrews 11:6
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”
Explanation:
This verse emphasizes the essential role of faith in pleasing God. Thanksgiving fuels faith because it acknowledges God’s past faithfulness and reinforces our trust in His promises. By thanking God, we demonstrate belief in His ability to provide and fulfill His Word, strengthening our faith in His sovereignty.
📖 Psalm 34:1
“I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
Explanation:
David declares that he will bless the Lord continuously, regardless of circumstances. This steadfast attitude of thanksgiving strengthens faith, as it reflects an unwavering trust in God’s goodness. By praising God through all seasons of life, we build our faith and grow in our dependence on His faithfulness.
📖 Romans 4:20-21
“He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.”
Explanation:
Abraham’s faith was strengthened through thanksgiving, as he trusted God’s promises despite his circumstances. Thanksgiving builds our confidence in God’s ability to fulfill His Word. When we give thanks, we acknowledge that God is faithful, which strengthens our trust in His promises, just as it did for Abraham.
📖 Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”
Explanation:
This verse reinforces the idea that thanksgiving strengthens our faith by reminding us that God is faithful to complete the work He started in us. Gratitude helps us trust that God will fulfill His promises, even when we don’t see immediate results. Thanksgiving deepens our faith, keeping our focus on God’s ongoing work in our lives.
📖 Psalm 118:1
“O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: because his mercy endureth forever.”
Explanation:
This verse is a declaration of God’s goodness, reminding us to give thanks because of His enduring mercy. Thanksgiving strengthens our faith by focusing on God’s unchanging nature. When we thank God for His goodness and mercy, we reinforce our trust in His ability to guide and sustain us through all challenges.
📖 Ephesians 5:20
“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Explanation:
This verse calls for continual thanksgiving for all things, which helps strengthen our faith. By being thankful in every situation, we acknowledge God’s sovereignty and deepen our reliance on Him. Gratitude in all circumstances builds our trust in God’s plan, fortifying our faith and our spiritual growth.
📖 2 Corinthians 4:15
“For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.”
Explanation:
Paul teaches that thanksgiving reflects God’s abundant grace and brings glory to Him. When we give thanks, we acknowledge that all things work together for our good, which strengthens our faith. Gratitude opens our eyes to God’s grace, encouraging us to trust in His purpose and work in our lives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 40+ Bible Verses About Thanksgiving remind us of the profound importance of giving thanks to God in every situation. Thanksgiving is not just about expressing gratitude but also about recognizing God’s goodness and faithfulness. As we cultivate a thankful heart, we draw closer to Him, experience His peace, and strengthen our faith.
These verses emphasize that gratitude brings joy, peace, and spiritual growth. Whether in moments of joy or hardship, thanksgiving serves as a powerful tool to enhance our relationship with God. By embracing a life of gratitude, we invite His presence and blessings into every aspect of our lives.
FAQ’s
Why is thanksgiving important in the Bible?
Thanksgiving is essential because it acknowledges God’s goodness and sovereignty. It helps deepen our relationship with God and allows us to trust Him more fully. It is also a way of honoring Him for His continuous blessings.
How does thanksgiving lead to peace and joy?
Thanksgiving shifts our focus from worry and anxiety to God’s provision, fostering peace in our hearts. By being thankful, we invite joy into our lives, knowing that God is in control and always with us, no matter the situation.
Can thanksgiving strengthen our faith?
Yes, thanksgiving strengthens our faith by reminding us of God’s past faithfulness. It builds trust in His promises and helps us remain confident in His ability to provide and guide us through every circumstance.
How can I practice thanksgiving in daily life?
You can practice thanksgiving daily by acknowledging God’s goodness in both big and small things. Start by thanking Him each day for His love, grace, and the blessings you receive, whether personal or spiritual.
What is the difference between gratitude and thanksgiving in the Bible?
Gratitude is the feeling of thankfulness, while thanksgiving is the act of expressing that gratitude. In the Bible, thanksgiving involves not only feeling thankful but actively praising and honoring God for His blessings and faithfulness.
Want to discover more Bible-based insights? Check out our collection of verses at BibleMiracle.com
