"Thank you" is expected. It is the cultural norm - we are supposed to thank others.

And we are taught to thank God. In everything. Giving thanks becomes automatic and part of the "language" in prayer and in songs.

I often forget that when I give thanks in prayer and in songs, it ought to be an expression of what is inside my heart. Not an automatic form of faith "language"; not because it is the "norm". But wholeheartedly because of heartfelt gratefulness.

And what do I do when I do not "feel like it"? Do I not give thanks?

I think it is best that I be ruthlessly honest with God, since he knows my thoughts anyway. And with that, I find peace and something to sincerely thank him for.

Lord,
even when my circumstance is such that
I do not feel like giving thanks,
I thank you for you have never forsaken me.
This is absolutely true
and I wholeheartedly give thanks for it.

You are never stingy with your love
and your blessings.
Help me to be aware of them always
and thus always my heart be
wholeheartedly thankful.

~

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