Grateful people are happier people

Studies show a strong link between thankfulness and happiness. Researchers say that when we express gratitude or even concentrate on things we are thankful for, the brain releases neurotransmitters that evoke happiness or joy. It seems no coincidence that the Bible consistently reminds us to give thanks and be thankful.

For instance, Psalm 100:4 says, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving; enter his courts with praise. Be thankful to him and praise his name.” The New Testament has similar verses.



The Apostle Paul writes, “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” (Philippians 4:6-7). Passages like these are scattered throughout the pages of the Bible, and they remind us of what modern research continues to echo: Grateful people are happy people.

Thankfulness is not about ignoring the difficulties or even the evils of the world. Instead, it is about letting the blessings we have experienced and those currently around us give us the encouragement and the courage we need to keep going. We are constantly bombarded by fearful messages that give us a sense of hopelessness.

That is why even in the Bible we are often reminded to “be still” and reflect on the blessings God has given us. These blessings include friends, family members, teachers, sunshine, rain and life. These are general starting points, and from there, we can fill in the blanks with those things that are specific to us.

Maybe a less biblical, yet very helpful, song by the legendary Bing Crosby reminds us: “When I’m worried and I can’t sleep; I count my blessings instead of sheep; And I fall asleep counting my blessings.” In this season when we intentionally give thanks, perhaps we can pause and become more grateful people. Chances are, as our thankfulness rises, so will our joy.

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