Grateful for You

Date: December 5, 2025

Scripture Reading: Philippians 1:3

“I thank my God every time I remember you.”

In just a few words, Paul captures something deeply meaningful about Christian community. His gratitude is not casual or shallow — it flows from a heart that recognizes the gift of people God has placed in his life. When he thinks of the believers in Philippi, joy rises in him, and thanksgiving naturally follows. Their faith, their partnership, their love, and their perseverance in the gospel bring Paul strength and encouragement.

This verse reminds us how valuable spiritual relationships truly are. God never intended for us to walk alone. He surrounds us with people who pray for us, challenge us, support us, and walk with us through seasons of growth and difficulty. Sometimes we don’t realize how much we need these relationships until we pause long enough to remember them.

Paul models something important here: gratitude should be expressed. It’s not enough to feel thankful — thanksgiving becomes powerful when we direct it toward God and when we acknowledge to others the impact they’ve had on our lives. Gratitude strengthens unity, deepens love, and keeps our hearts soft toward the people God has given us.

Main Takeaways

• God uses people in our lives to encourage, strengthen, and shape us.
• True gratitude honors God and builds unity among believers.
• Remembering others with thankfulness keeps our hearts tender and focused on what matters.

Cross-Referencing Scriptures

• 1 Thessalonians 1:2: “We always thank God for all of you…”
• Hebrews 10:24: “Consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.”
• Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

Take a moment today to thank God for the people who have impacted your faith. Let gratitude fill your heart, and consider reaching out to someone just to say, “I thank God for you.”