With Thanksgiving next week, it is appropriate to share about the importance of thankfulness.

We live in a country that is filled with opportunity and freedom, yet there are so many people who are discontent.

We do have problems. We all have our challenges in life, but we need to learn to become more grateful.

We have so much to be thankful for. We have family, friends, health, home, food and clothing. We live in a country where we could read the Bible in a public place and worship where we want.

It is God's will for us to give thanks. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

God provides for our daily needs. He gives us health and strength to be productive people and to earn a living. Psalms 136:1: "Give thanks to the Lord for he is good."

Having a thankful heart will protect our hearts from discontentment, anxiety and depression.

It is beneficial to write in a "Thanks Journal."

Write down all the things for which you are thankful to God. Do that on a daily basis, and then you will see that your whole outlook on life will be transformed.

We need to pray daily with a thankful heart.

Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything 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 minds in Christ Jesus."

Get into the habit of thanking God for the people He places in your life. Don't take the people in your life for granted.

Want more peace within your life?

Become a more thankful person.

Linda Warne is a member of Calvary Chapel, Komo Mai, 'Aiea. Expressions of Faith is a column that welcomes submissions from pastors, priests, lay workers and other leaders in faith and spirituality. E-mail faith@honoluluadvertiser.com or call 525-8035. Articles submitted to The Advertiser may be published or distributed in print, electronic or other forms.