Paul was put in prison in Rome because of his faith in Christ. He was persecuted and treated like a criminal. He could’ve complained and become depressed about being confined to prison when he didn’t do anything wrong. He could’ve been anxious and fearful about being abused and executed. He could’ve been angry at God.
Instead Paul the wrote the most thankful, joyful, and loving letter to the people of Philippi. His example inspires us to be thankful to God in difficult circumstances. Why? Because “the Lord is near” (Phil. 4:6). Paul was joyful and at peace because he wasn’t just in prison — he was in the Kingdom of the Heavens, where his citizenship was (Phil. 3:20).
Here are some of the encouraging Thankful Bible Verses in this inspiring book! These are designed to be read in community for a small group, family gathering, or retreat. (They’re especially good for your Thanksgiving dinner and family celebration!) Each person can take a turn reading a verse and sharing something they want to give thanks to God for.
In addition to thanking God for a blessing you might stretch yourself to thank him for the blessing of his loving care in the midst of whatever trial or difficulty you’re experiencing at the time. (All Thankful Bible Verses are from Philippians, NIV.)
Thankful Bible Verses
“Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (1:2)
“I thank my God every time I remember you.” (1:3)
“In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel.” (1:4-5)
“[I am] confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (1:6)
“Because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear… [so] I rejoice” (1:14, 18)
“Have the same mindset as Christ Jesus… He made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant.” (2:5, 7)
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that… you will shine among [this warped and crooked generation] like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.” (2:14-16)
“Even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.” (2:17)
“Rejoice in the Lord… it is a safeguard for you.” (3:1)
“I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.” (3:8)
“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.” (3:10-11)
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (3:14)
“Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who… will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.” (3:20-21)
“My brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!” (4:1)
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” (4:4-5)
“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.” (4:6-7)
“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (4:8)
“I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.: (4:12-13)
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (4:19)
“To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (4:20)