143 Reasons to Be Thankful, Both Big and Small

In my planners that I sell, I have a section for things that I’m grateful for today. Usually, I’m completing this around 5:00 or 6:00 in the morning and I can usually only think of the same things over and over again when my coffee hasn’t reached my brain yet. Gratitude can be found in both big and small aspects of life, and it’s a powerful way to enhance your overall well-being and happiness. Gratitude is also a powerful form of worship. Even in trials, 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us:

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

To make my life a little easier and my list a little fuller and less boring, I decided to procure a list of things to be grateful for in normal, everyday life and as a Christian. I have divided it into the following sections:

Everyday Blessings
Relationships & People
Christian & Spiritual Gratitude
Life’s Simple Joys; and
Growth, Strength & Opportunities

I’m sharing the list in case it can help you too, when you still have brain fog early in the morning. I hope it will help you and to see more things to be grateful for in your life.

Everyday Blessings

A comfy bed
Soft blankets
Hot showers
The smell of fresh bread
The smell of flowers
A book you can’t put down
A handwritten note
Your favourite meal
A working car or transport
Good hair days
Being organized and productive
A safe and comfortable home
Access to education and opportunities
A fulfilling job or purpose
Moments of joy and laughter
Answered prayers—big or small
An income
A break or rest when needed
Moments of stillness and peace
Music that lifts your soul
A warm, good cup of coffee or tea
A hug when you need it
Safety during travel or storms
Memories that make you smile and warm your heart
Technology that connects us
Freedom to make choices
A new day and fresh starts
Breath in your lungs
The kindness of strangers
Clean running water
Enough food to eat
Clothes to wear
Warm sunshine on your skin
The sound of birds singing
The smell of fresh rain or flowers
The ability to read, write, speak, listen and learn
The strength to keep going
Modern medicine and healthcare
Pets and animals that bring joy
Art and creativity
The ability to dream and set goals
The resilience you’ve built through hard times
Freedom to express yourself
Loving relationships—romantic or platonic
The ability to smile, even after tears
Moments of inspiration or revelation
Laughter shared with loved ones
A kind word or encouragement from someone
A beautiful sky—sunrise, sunset, or starlight
The smell of your favourite thing
Opportunities for new beginnings
God’s hand in the details of life you didn’t even notice
Grace to forgive yourself
The mystery and beauty of life itself

Relationships & People

Children’s laughter
A spouse or partner who gets you
Grandparents and their wisdom
Siblings and shared memories
Neighbours who look out for each other
Teachers who care
Mentors who guide
Co-workers who make work better
Nurses, doctors, and carers
People who pray for you
Someone who listens
A shared inside joke
People who encourage you
Honest conversations
A phone call just to check in
Someone who makes you feel seen
Family who loves and supports you
Friends who lift you up and walk with you
A church or faith community

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Christian & Spiritual Gratitude

Grace you didn’t earn
Mercy that renews every morning
Prayer—being able to talk to God anytime, anywhere
Healing—physical, emotional, and spiritual
God’s timing (even when we don’t understand it)
The comfort of scripture
Being known and loved by your Creator
Salvation through Jesus Christ
Forgiveness of sins
God’s mercy for me
The Bible, God’s living Word – a daily guide
God’s faithfulness, even when we falter
The peace that surpasses understanding
God’s plan and purpose for your life
The fruits of the Spirit
The example and teachings of Jesus
The ability to hear God’s voice
Conviction and spiritual growth
The freedom to worship openly (where applicable)
The armour of God
Spiritual gifts and callings
God’s promises—never failing
God’s never-ending love
The resurrection power that lives in you
The gift of the Holy Spirit—Comforter, Guide, Helper
God’s patience with you
Spiritual growth and sanctification
Hope that anchors your soul
God’s protection, seen and unseen
The beauty of creation reflecting God’s glory
The power of praise and worship that stirs your soul
Divine guidance when facing decisions
Miracles—big and small
Encouragement through Christian community
God’s discipline that shapes you in love
The privilege to serve others in His name
The chance to reflect Christ’s light in a dark world
Testimonies of breakthrough and deliverance
Opportunities to forgive and be forgiven
The joy of spiritual victories

Life’s Simple Joys

Watching a sunrise and sunset
Stars in the night sky
Freshly baked cookies
Flowers blooming
Baby giggles
A clean kitchen
Ice cream on a hot day
The smell after rain
Road trips with music
Catching up with an old friend
Discovering a new hobby
Fresh notebooks and pens
Sunday naps
The smell of clean laundry
Cosy socks
A cool breeze
Lazy mornings
Finding money in your pocket
The perfect parking spot
Finishing a to-do list
Rainy days

Growth, Strength & Opportunities

Learning something new
God’s strength in your weakness
Overcoming a fear
Patience that’s grown
Dreams being fulfilled
The courage to say no
Wisdom gained from experience
When God says “wait” and it ends up being better
Opportunities you didn’t expect

I love sharing my findings with you as I find things out when doing Bible study or just being inquisitive. I hope it blesses you as much as it blessed me.

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I pray you have a blessed and beautiful day further. May your cup overflow!

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