Best Bible Verses About Friendship and Gratitude

Have you ever looked for the best Bible verses about friendship and gratitude? When it comes to nurturing friends, God’s Word speaks directly to the human heart. 

This collection of Scriptures isn’t just ancient, random Bible passages tucked away on dusty pages. They echo the timeless values and wonderful deeds of the God of Israel that nurture our connections and inspire a grateful heart in everyday life. 

If you’ve ever wondered how faith can deepen your friendships in the best ways or bring a fresh perspective on gratitude, you’re in the right place. 

Bible verses about friendship and gratitude

Table of Contents  

  • Proverbs 17:17 – A Friend Loves at All Times  
  • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – The Strength of Companionship  
  • John 15:13 – The Greatest Love  
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – Encouraging Each Other  
  • Proverbs 27:17 – Iron Sharpens Iron  
  • Colossians 3:15 – Let Peace Rule Your Heart  
  • Philippians 1:3 – Thankful for Partnership  
  • Romans 12:10 – Honoring One Another  
  • James 1:17 – Every Good Gift is From Above  
  • 1 Corinthians 1:4 – Thankfulness for Grace  
  • Psalm 133:1 – The Blessing of Unity

Proverbs 17:17 – A Friend Loves at All Times  

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity” (Proverbs 17:17, NIV). 

Friendship that feels steady and unwavering is beautifully reflected in Proverbs 17:17, which reminds us that dear friends stay by your side through good times and difficult situations. 

This verse from the Book of Proverbs is a heartfelt nod to the idea that genuine friendship isn’t just about laughter and fun. The importance of friendship also means being there during the difficult times. It invites us to reflect on the reliability and lasting nature of the important relationships we cherish with close friends, good friends, and new friends. 

Friendship’s durability anchored in Christ is a deep bond amidst life’s challenging times. Recognizing this can deepen our appreciation for those who truly stick close, inviting us to express thanks for God’s goodness.

  • Unconditional Support: This verse emphasizes that true friendship does not depend on circumstances but is a consistent source of care and assurance.
  • Emotional Stability: It suggests that great friends provide a steady emotional foundation, reducing feelings of loneliness and uncertainty.
  • Mutual Loyalty: Loyal friendships are reinforced by this Scripture, advocating for faithfulness and good works even during difficulties.
  • Endurance Through Challenges: The idea encourages friends to be present even when situations are not easy or comfortable.
  • Deep Connection: It implicitly promotes a profound and trusting connection that grows stronger along our spiritual journey.

Related: Powerful Bible Verses for Self-Esteem and Self-Worth

bible verses for self-esteem

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – The Strength of Companionship  

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, ESV).

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 highlights the practical and spiritual benefits of companionship, reminding us that two are better than one. This verse paints a vivid picture of teamwork and shared strength, acknowledging that life’s burdens feel lighter and victories sweeter when shared. 

The words that the Lord inspired in Solomon reassure anyone feeling overwhelmed that friendship offers real, tangible support. The imagery of lifting one another up invites us to embrace a special bond, breaking the myth of solo perfection.

  • Shared Success: This passage shows how two working in harmony can accomplish more, celebrating teamwork and collaboration.
  • Mutual Support: It underlines the idea that friends help prevent each other from falling into despair or failure.
  • Encouragement in Hard Times: The text explicitly references rescue in difficult moments, offering hope and reassurance toward a better way.
  • Emotional Strength: Togetherness is framed as a source of emotional lifting, reminding us we’re never alone in struggle.
  • Community Importance: It offers a powerful reminder that encourages forming strong connections rather than isolating oneself.

If you’ve ever found comfort in a friend’s presence during tough times, this Scripture might feel like a warm hug in words. 

Life is full of selfish ambition and bad company. However, having someone to lean on to receive heartfelt advice and steadfast love transforms those moments into shared journeys.

Related: Who Was the Strongest Man in the Bible and Why?

strongest man in the Bible

John 15:13 – The Greatest Love  

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13, NIV).

John 15:13 defines friendship with a measure of sacrifice—the willingness to lay down one’s life for a friend. Though this sounds intense, it’s more about deep, selfless love and putting a friend’s well-being above one’s own comfort. 

This verse elevates friendship to a level of profound commitment and generosity. It reminds us that true connections often require vulnerability and courage. Such love resonates richly in any close relationship where giving surpasses taking.

  • Selflessness: True friendship, as John describes, is rooted in putting others’ needs and safety first, showing genuine care.
  • Ultimate Sacrifice: While literal sacrifice is rare, the principle encourages daily acts of kindness and loyalty.
  • Deep Emotional Bond: This verse captures the depth of heartfelt commitment that underlines lasting friendships.
  • Trust and Dependability: It fosters trust by encouraging friends to be dependable no matter the cost.
  • Model for Love: It serves as a spiritual example to inspire how we love others beyond casual connections.

Approaching friendship with this mindset transforms ordinary relationships into inspiring, life-affirming bonds. It may seem daunting at first, but even small acts of putting friends first reflect the spirit of this verse beautifully.  

Related: What is the Longest Psalm Contained in the Bible?

Longest Psalm in the Bible

1 Thessalonians 5:11 – Encouraging Each Other  

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11, NIV). 

The simple call in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 to “encourage one another and build each other up” encourages a spirit of positivity and nurture within friendships. 

This verse is like a gentle coach urging us to be a source of cheer and encouragement for those around us. It highlights the uplifting power of words and actions that boost morale. 

Encouragement is portrayed not just as nice, but as essential for a thriving community.  

  • Positive Reinforcement: Encouragement involves acknowledging and celebrating others’ efforts and successes to inspire them.
  • Emotional Support: It provides comfort from our Heavenly Father during hard times through kind words and meaningful gestures.
  • Building Confidence: Regular upliftment helps friends grow more self-assured and brave in facing challenges.
  • Strengthening Bonds: Encouragement is a beautiful way to foster deeper connections by showing care and investment in others’ well-being.
  • Creating a Supportive Environment: It contributes to a friendly atmosphere where everyone feels valued and motivated.

This verse gently reminds us that our words and actions hold power. Choosing to build up for moments of joy rather than tear down is a friendly invitation to let the Lord’s face shine into someone’s day regularly. 

Related: Best Good Luck and Encouraging Blessing Bible Verses 

Best Good Luck and Encouraging Blessing Bible Verses

Proverbs 27:17 – Iron Sharpens Iron  

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17, NIV). 

Proverbs 27:17 offers an intriguing metaphor reminding us how friends help refine and improve us, like iron sharpening iron. It’s a beautiful image illustrating that true friendship challenges and encourages us to grow into better versions of ourselves. 

Rather than comfort alone, it’s about growth through honest interaction and mutual improvement. This verse from the Word of God invites us to embrace constructive feedback and shared learning in our relationships. Those are precious gifts that build good character among God’s people.

  • Personal Growth: Friendships can prompt positive change and self-improvement through honest feedback. Love covers the sting.
  • Mutual Improvement: It reflects a reciprocal process where friends uplift and challenge each other simultaneously.
  • Constructive Criticism: Encourages communication that helps rather than hurts, fostering deeper trust.
  • Emotional Strength: Such sharpening strengthens resilience by preparing us better for life’s challenges.
  • Inspiration to Excel: Friends inspire ambitions and aspirations, pushing each other towards beautiful things and excellence.

Friendship isn’t always about agreement; sometimes it’s about those moments that stretch us. When handled with love and respect, this sharpening process becomes a rewarding source of personal and relational development.

Related: What to Highlight in the Bible and the Best Way To Do It  

What to Highlight in the Bible

Colossians 3:15 – Let Peace Rule Your Heart  

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, ESV). 

Colossians 3:15 invites us to let peace be the guiding force in our relationships, including friendship. It encourages maintaining harmony and calmness that transcends conflicts or misunderstandings. 

Peace here is more than silence; it’s an active choice to foster unity and reconciliation. This truth gently nudges us to be peacemakers in our friendships, valuing connection over contention. 

  • Harmony in Relationships: Choosing peace helps avoid unnecessary arguments and nurtures healthier, happier bonds.
  • Emotional Calmness: Promotes a soothing environment where friends feel secure and understood.
  • Conflict Resolution: Encourages dealing with issues thoughtfully, seeking reconciliation instead of prolonged strife.
  • Spiritual Centering: Peace reflects a connectedness to spiritual well-being that influences behavior positively.
  • Promotes Forgiveness: Peace makes space for forgiveness, which is essential in renewing hurt friendships.

Bringing peace to the heart is a gift to both ourselves and others. It’s a gentle reminder that friendships thrive in environments where calm understanding reigns.  

Related: 10 Powerful Prayers and Peace After the Death of a Loved One

Prayers of Peace

Philippians 1:3 – Thankful for Partnership  

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you” (Philippians 1:3, ESV).

Philippians 1:3 expresses heartfelt gratitude for the companionship and partnership we share with friends. It’s a simple yet profound acknowledgment that friends enrich our lives in countless ways. This verse gently encourages taking moments to recognize and express thankfulness for those who journey alongside us. 

Gratitude strengthens relationships by highlighting their value with a heart of gratitude rather than taking them for granted.  

  • Expressing Appreciation: Encourages actively recognizing and valuing the presence and support of friends.
  • Strengthening Bonds: Thankfulness reinforces emotional ties and promotes ongoing care and consideration.
  • Encourages Reflection: Invites moments of reflection on what friendships bring to life’s journey.
  • Promotes Generosity: Grateful hearts often lead to more giving, kindness, and mutual respect.
  • Spiritual Gratitude: Rooted in a deeper, spiritual acknowledgment of blessings in friendship.

Sharing gratitude can sometimes feel small, but it has a big impact in sustaining joy in friendship. Recognizing friends as special people and blessings can transform routine interactions into meaningful celebrations. 

Related: Who Was the Wisest Man in the Bible That Ever Lived? 

Wisest Man in the Bible

Romans 12:10 – Honoring One Another  

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor” (Romans 12:10, ESV). 

Romans 12:10 calls us to honor others above ourselves in friendship, which speaks of deep respect and valuing others’ worth. This attitude creates friendships built on kindness, esteem, and selflessness rather than competition or comparison. 

Honoring someone is about appreciating the little things, their unique gifts, and treating them with dignity. In humility, value others above yourself. It’s a refreshing formula for building trust and lasting connections.  

  • Respect: Offers a foundation for friendships (including family members) by genuinely valuing each other’s qualities and contributions.
  • Priority of Others: Encourages putting friends’ needs and feelings ahead of selfish interests.
  • Promotes Humility: Stresses the importance of humility in strengthening relationships.
  • Trust Building: Honor fosters reliability and confidence, critical to enduring friendships.
  • Positive Interaction: Inspires kind and uplifting communication, which deepens bonds.

When we honor friends sincerely, we cultivate an environment where vulnerability and authenticity thrive. This verse, penned by the Apostle Paul, gently guides us toward friendships filled with mutual respect and genuine appreciation.  

Related: Sons of Noah in the Bible and What Happened to Them

sons of Noah in the Bible 

James 1:17 – Every Good Gift is From Above  

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change” (James 1:17, ESV).

James 1:17 reminds us that all good things in our lives, including friendship, are gifts from God. The greatest gift is eternal life with Him. This spiritual perspective encourages gratitude not only toward friends but also toward God as the divine source behind these blessings. 

Recognizing friendship as a divine gift helps us cherish it more deeply and fosters humility. It places relationships within a broader context of grace and benevolence.  

  • Divine Origin: Frames friendships as blessings granted by a higher power, enhancing their significance.
  • Gratitude to God: Encourages thanking God for the people He places in our lives.
  • Reminder of Goodness: Highlights that goodness and kindness in friendships reflect God’s nature.
  • Encourages Stewardship: Suggests caring for friendships responsibly as valuable gifts.
  • Inspires Humility: Recognizing gifts from above humbles us and deepens appreciation.

Seeing friendships as special gifts can inspire us to nurture these bonds with care and thankfulness. It’s a thoughtful reminder that friends are treasures to be valued habitually. 

Related: Praying Mantis in the Bible: Symbolism and Meaning 

Praying Mantis in the Bible

1 Corinthians 1:4 – Thankfulness for Grace  

I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus” (1 Corinthians 1:4, ESV). 

Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 1:4 express gratitude for the grace given through friends’ faith and companionship. This verse highlights the intersection of spiritual and relational gratitude, reminding us that friendships often bring encouragement in faith. 

It encourages appreciation for the unseen support friends provide through shared values and spiritual journeys. The gratitude is deep, extending beyond material or surface-level appreciation.  

  • Spiritual Encouragement: Friends often reinforce faith through shared beliefs and mutual support.
  • Grace in Relationships: Recognizes that friendships thrive on grace, forgiveness, and patience.
  • Heartfelt Thanks: Expresses sincere, deep gratitude for the role friends play in spiritual growth.
  • Community of Faith: Highlights the importance of friendships within spiritual communities.
  • Motivation to Nurture: Encourages caring for friends with the same grace received from God.

Acknowledging the grace within friendships brings a new level of appreciation and kindness to interactions. This New Testament verse invites us to treasure friends as partners in both life and faith.

Related: 15 Top Prayer Card Ideas With Verses and Prayers  

Prayer card with bible verses and prayers

Psalm 133:1 – The Blessing of Unity  

Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!” (Psalm 133:1, ESV).

Psalm 133:1 celebrates the beauty and blessing of friends dwelling together in unity. It paints a vivid picture of harmony as something precious and anointed, symbolized by sacred oil and dew. This verse warmly reminds us that unity in friendship brings peace, blessing, and refreshment. 

It encourages fostering close, peaceful bonds that nourish the soul. The imagery inspires hope for long-lasting, joyful noise together.  

  • Harmony: Emphasizes the joy that comes from living and relating in Christ’s peace and agreement.
  • Spiritual Blessing: Describes unity as a sacred and valuable gift from the Lord, enhancing friends’ lives.
  • Renewal: Godly unity refreshes and rejuvenates relationships continually.
  • Community Strength: Unity builds a strong, resilient community able to face challenges together.
  • Lasting Joy: Affirms that harmonious friendship contributes to lifelong happiness.

So much of friendship’s beauty rests in peaceful togetherness. This verse tenderly invites us to treasure and nurture that unity as a source of lasting joy and health in our connections.

Related: 15 Powerful Bible Verses and Prayers for Bad Dreams

Powerful Bible Verses and Prayers for Bad Dreams

Key Takeaways  

  • Friendship and gratitude in the Bible emphasize sincere love, loyalty, and mutual support.  
  • Scripture highlights how gratitude can transform our mindset and strengthen relationships.  
  • The Bible offers practical guidance on being a good friend and expressing thankfulness.  
  • Verses about friendship encourage vulnerability, kindness, and perseverance through challenges.  
  • Gratitude found in Scripture invites us to celebrate everyday blessings with an open heart.

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About the Author

Donna is an award-winning author, sought-after speaker, and Bible teacher. Her path from unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was difficult. Read about her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, visit her here.

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Thanksgiving Bible Verses for Gratitude and Thankfulness

As Thanksgiving approaches, hearts turn toward giving thanks for the good things Christ Jesus brings us daily. His steadfast love sees us through each day regardless of difficult times. Learning Bible verses of gratitude and thanksgiving are key.

Why Give Thanks?

Thankfulness to our great God expresses gratitude for all that He has done for us. Give a great shout in a loud voice! The glory of God and His wonderful works accomplish great things. 

The perfect gift of Jesus’ atoning sacrifice and the constant presence of the Holy Spirit tell of His unwavering, unconditional love for us. Each of us has a hungry soul, a longing soul, to experience God’s love in our everyday life because it may be missing everywhere else.

A heart of gratitude and thankfulness allows the peace of Christ to rule over our lives. All of us can use peace, can’t we? Especially around big holidays when a busy schedule and family/church commitments rush in. Try keeping a gratitude journal!

Is Giving Thanks Important?

Offering God thanksgiving is an integral part of our faith life. Through it, God strengthens our faith, nurtures a thankful heart, and opens our eyes to His wondrous works and wonderful deeds.

The name of God is above every name. We have a voice of joy to express our thanks through the Spirit. Whether through a good report, a psalm of praise, or joy despite hard times, the Lord of lords is faithful to provide for our every need.

Gratitude helps us remember every good gift and abundant grace that the Most High has bestowed on us. These thanksgiving scriptures will help you express gratitude to the God of heaven.

25 Bible Verses for Giving Thanks

Here are some key verses from the Word of God for this Thanksgiving Day or any time with a voice of gladness. I have included several translations so that you can pick the ones most meaningful to you.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

ESV: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

KJV: “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

NIV: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

NLT: “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”

2 Corinthians 9:15

ESV: “Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!”

KJV: “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.”

NIV: “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!”

NLT: “Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!”

Psalm 103:1-4

ESV: “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His Holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy.”

KJV: “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies.”

NIV: “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins    and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion.”

NLT: “Let all that I am praise the Lord; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies.”

Psalm 119:1-8 

ESV: “Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments. I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous rules. I will keep your statutes; do not utterly forsake me!”

“Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly.”

“Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the Lord. Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart—they do no wrong but follow his ways. You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed. Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees! Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands. I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws. I will obey your decrees; do not utterly forsake me.”

“Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord. Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths. You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands. As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey your decrees. Please don’t give up on me!”

Colossians 2:6-7 

ESV: “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.”

KJV: “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.”

NIV: “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”

NLT: “And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.”

Hebrews 13:15-16

ESV: “Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”

KJV: “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. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”

NIV: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess His name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

NLT: “Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.”

Isaiah 12:4-5

ESV: “Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the peoples, proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be made known in all the earth.”

KJV: “Praise the Lord, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted. Sing unto the Lord; for he hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth.”

NIV: “Give praise to the Lord, proclaim His name; make known among the nations what He has done, and proclaim that His name is exalted. Sing to the Lord, for He has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.”

NLT: “Thank the Lord! Praise his name! Tell the nations what he has done. Let them know how mighty he is! Sing to the Lord, for he has done wonderful things. Make known his praise around the world.”

Ephesians 5:18-20

ESV: “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

KJV: “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

NIV: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing songs of praise from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

NLT: “Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

James 1:17

ESV: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”

KJV: “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.”

NIV: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

NLT: “Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.”

1 Chronicles 29:12-13

ESV: “Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand, it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.”

KJV: “Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.”

NIV: “Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.”

NLT: “Wealth and honor come from you alone, for you rule over everything. Power and might are in your hand, and at your discretion people are made great and given strength. O our God, we thank you and praise your glorious name!”

Hebrews 12:28

ESV: “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe.”

KJV: “Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.”

NIV: “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.”

NLT: “Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe.”

Colossians 3:15-17

ESV: “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 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.”

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with a grateful heart. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

NLT: “And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”

Psalm 118:24

ESV: “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

KJV: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

NIV: “The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.”

NLT: “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Psalm 95:1-5

ESV: “Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into His presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to Him with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In His hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are His also. The sea is His, for he made it, and His hands formed the dry land.”

“O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also. The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land.”

“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land.”

“Come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Come to him with thanksgiving. Let us sing psalms of praise to him. For the Lord is a great God, a great King above all gods. He holds in his hands the depths of the earth and the mightiest mountains. The sea belongs to him, for he made it. His hands formed the dry land, too.”

Philippians 4:4-7

ESV: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

KJV: “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. 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.”

NIV: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

NLT: “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

1 Chronicles 16:34

ESV: “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!”

KJV: “O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.”

NIV: “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.”

NLT: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.”

Psalm 107:1-3

ESV: “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south.”

KJV: “O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; and gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south.”

NIV: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south.”

NLT: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies. For he has gathered the exiles from many lands, from east and west, from north and south.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

ESV: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

KJV: “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”

NIV: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

NLT: “All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”

Psalm 50:14-15

ESV: “Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.”

KJV: “Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High: And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.”

NIV: “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.”

NLT: “Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God, and keep the vows you made to the Most High. Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.”

Psalm 28:7

ESV: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.”

KJV: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.”

NIV: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.”

NLT: “The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.”

Acts 4:33

ESV: “And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and the grace of God was upon them all.”

KJV: “And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.”

NIV: “With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all.”

NLT: “The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God’s great blessing was upon them all.”

Jonah 2:9

ESV: “But I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay. Salvation belongs to the Lord!”

KJV: “But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the Lord.”

NIV: “But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, ‘Salvation comes from the Lord.'”

NLT: “But I will offer sacrifices to you with songs of praise, and I will fulfill all my vows. For my salvation comes from the Lord alone.”

2 Corinthians 9:11

ESV: “You are enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.”

KJV: “Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.”

NIV: “God enriches you in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”

NLT: “Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God.”

Ephesians 5:4

ESV: “Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.”

KJV: “Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.”

NIV: “Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.”

NLT: “Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God.”

Philippians 1:3-5

ESV: “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”

KJV: “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.”

NIV: “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”

NLT: “Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now.”

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About the Author
Donna is a sought-after author, speaker, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

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