The Little Things: What We Forget to Be Thankful For

Gratitude comes easily when life feels good — when prayers are answered, plans fall into place, and blessings are obvious. But the truth is, God calls us to live with a thankful heart in every season, not just the easy ones.

Sometimes, the deepest peace comes when we pause and notice the blessings we’ve been walking past every day. Here are a few things we often forget to be thankful for:

1. Ordinary mornings

The alarm that wakes you up, the sloppy dog kisses, the quiet before the day begins — these small routines are signs of life, stability, and grace.

2. Our bodies

Even when we wish they looked or felt different, our bodies carry us through every moment of our lives. The ability to move, breathe, and grow stronger is a gift we often overlook.

3. Work — even the hard kind

Whether it’s a job you love or one that simply pays the bills, work gives us purpose, rhythm, and the chance to serve others. Gratitude changes how we see the mundane.

4. People who challenge us

It’s easy to be thankful for those who support us. But even the difficult relationships teach us patience, humility, and compassion — the same qualities Jesus showed us daily.

5. The waiting seasons

Waiting stretches our faith, slows our pace, and reminds us that God’s timing is always better than our own. There’s purpose even in the pause.

6. Rest

It’s not laziness — it’s obedience. God designed us to rest because He knows we can’t pour from an empty cup. Sabbath is sacred for a reason. Even the God of the universe, the creator of all things, rested.

On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work. —Genesis 2:2 (NLT)

7. Another day to try again

Every sunrise is a quiet reminder of grace. Whatever yesterday held, today is a fresh start — another chance to live with love, faith, and gratitude.

A Heart That Sees

Gratitude doesn’t require a perfect life — just an attentive heart. When we choose to thank God for the little things, we start to see His hand in everything.

What are you thankful for today?

Amber Dabney Smith

Your Hope Dealer