God knows we often grumble and complain so he reminds us throughout scripture to give thanks. When we focus on the things we lack, we can forget to appreciate what we have. God wants us to give thanks for everything! How can we be thankful for our spouse, children and parents when they don’t meet our expectations? Here are three reasons:

1.God is Good

“Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. His faithful love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1).

When we give thanks we confirm God is good. It acknowledges we are placing our hope in a good God Who has given us these relationships for a purpose. Even if your spouse or children do not believe in Jesus Christ, (1 Corinthians 7:16), God may work through you to save them.

Even if you have a poor relationship with your parents, God will always be there for you—ready to show His unfailing love as your Heavenly Father. If your family has accepted Jesus Christ, then you can truly thank God that he promises to complete what he started. God can use our relationships to lead us to Him and strengthen our faith.

2. It is God’s Will for You

“Give thanks” is written as a command over and over in scripture. It is not a suggestion or a feeling. It takes a deliberate choice. “Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Paul sang praises and thanked God even while he was in prison. We too can give thanks “in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” who has given us salvation, eternal hope, and everything else good in our lives, including our family.

3. The Holy Spirit Fills Us

God never commands us to do something without giving us the power to do it. “...Understand what the Lord’s will is. …..be filled by the Spirit: speaking to one another in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making music from your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for everything to God …..” (Ephesians 5:17-20). The key is being filled with the Spirit! Ask God to help you give thanks and fill your heart with joy.

It’s easy to dwell on the annoying things our loved ones do instead of rejoicing over the blessing they are to us. Keep your thoughts focused on good things that are worthy of praise. (Philippians 4:8) Say the words, “I’m so thankful for you.” Appreciation lightens the heart, (Psalm 138:1), and spreads to those around us bringing peace, love and unity. (Colossians 3:12-17)