“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:15-16 (ESV)

Confession: I am a bit of a “thank you” stickler.

If I hold the door open for a stranger or let someone in my lane of traffic, some type of appreciative gesture would be nice. Unfortunately that doesn’t always happen.

Recently I went out of my way for someone, but it was never acknowledged, and I felt unappreciated.

I really wanted to vent to someone else about it, but instead, I prayed and went to God's Word. Here’s what I read:

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:15-16).

My heart immediately felt peace. If anyone knows about being unappreciated, it is Jesus!

There are so many instances in Scripture where people wanted to get something from Jesus: a good sermon, a meal, healing and more. Once they got what they came for, sometimes they offered praise to God … and sometimes they didn’t.

There is one story in particular where Jesus called out a lack of thankfulness.

In Luke 17, while Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem, 10 men who had leprosy cried out to Him for healing. Jesus told them, “Go show yourselves to the priests,” and as they walked away, they were cleansed of their leprosy (Luke 17:14, NLT). That’s why what happened next is surprising: Only one of them said thank you!

Then Jesus asked, “Didn’t I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give glory to God[?]” (Luke 17:17-18, NLT).

One out of 10 … and these weren’t children who didn’t know better. These were grown men whose lives would never be the same now that Jesus had healed them.

Gratitude should be a part of our lives every day and a condition of our hearts. So here are a few reminders for you and me:

1. We may feel unappreciated. But let's remember Jesus has been there too!
2. Let’s show appreciation to others. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t like to be acknowledged for what they have done.
3. Let’s come to God with thanksgiving and praise. He doesn’t need our thanks, but He is worthy of it — He’s given us salvation!

My hope and prayer is not only to be a grateful person but also to express my gratitude.

Dear Father, thank You for everything You have done for me. Even when times are hard, help me see the good and be grateful for it! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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FOR DEEPER STUDY

1 Thessalonians 5:18, “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (ESV).

To whom can you express your gratitude today? What is one thing you can thank that person for?

We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments.

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