Amulek had some advice for the poor among the Zoramites, those who had been oppressed by the wealthy class in their community. “Live in thanksgiving daily,” he said, “for the many mercies and blessings which [God] doth bestow upon you” (Alma 34:38).
It may seem counterintuitive to cultivate a spirit of gratitude when you are oppressed, but Amulek knew that giving thanks would open their hearts to God and enable them to draw closer to Him.
The apostle Paul encouraged church members in Colossae, “Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2). To members in Philippi, he wrote, “In every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God” (Philippians 4:6). We should ask God for the things we need, but always with gratitude for the blessings we already enjoy.
In 1847, as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints camped beside the Missouri River in Iowa, Brigham Young received a revelation in which God provided guidance for their westward migration. “If thou art merry,” He counseled, “praise the Lord with singing, with music, with dancing, and with a prayer of praise and thanksgiving” (Doctrine and Covenants 136:28-29).
Commenting on this passage, Elder Quentin L. Cook said, “Lives full of praise, music, and thanksgiving are uniquely blessed” (“Be Peaceable Followers of Christ,” General Conference, October 2023).
Today, I will express my gratitude to God. I will remember the many blessings and mercies I have received from Him. I will communicate the happiness I feel with a prayer of thanksgiving.
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