Topic

Gratitude

Gratitude is the feeling that prompts us to say “thank-you”—both to God and to others—for the things that make us happy and make us better. We feel gratitude for the people we love, the earth we live in, our bodies, our talents, things we enjoy, and so much more.

However, gratitude is more than a feeling; it’s a choice and a mindset. Having a grateful attitude allows us to be happy not only during good times but all the time. We can choose to find the positive in people and situations around us rather than to let life’s difficulties drag us down.

Gratitude grows as it is expressed. By expressing our gratitude to others for their help and kindness, we give them the joy of being appreciated and we increase our own ability to recognize our blessings. Most important, we ought to give thanks to God for all that we have, because we recognize that, ultimately, everything good in our lives is because of Him. Just as our appreciation for each other is felt more deeply when it is accompanied by action, our prayers of thanks to God mean more when we strive to keep His commandments and serve others.

Cultivating an attitude of gratitude is a process. It requires humility to acknowledge others’ roles in our success and to attribute our blessings to God. It also requires conscious focus to be grateful in times of difficulty. These BYU devotionals help us understand the benefits of a grateful heart as well as the dangers of an ungrateful one. They offer ideas of how we can develop greater gratitude. The speakers’ own expressions of gratitude for blessings, experiences, opportunities, and even challenges are humbling and inspiring. Their words will encourage you to “count your many blessings” (Hymns, no. 241).

Inspiring Shorts

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By Study & By Faith

Parris K. Egbert May 24, 2011

Gary B. Sabin | November 7, 2023

We must follow Christ by exercising faith and keeping an eternal perspective to fulfill life’s mission and return with honor to our Father in Heaven.

devotional 2023

Peggy S. Worthen, wife to the president of Brigham Young University.

Peggy S. Worthen | January 12, 2021

Gratitude is the remedy for troubled times. Peggy S. Worthen shares her testimony of the power of being thankful, even amid a pandemic.

devotional 2021

Wilford W. Andersen | November 7, 2017

Recognize that God is the source of every blessing you receive. Treasure His counsel. Your gratitude will guide your escape from the pride cycle.

devotional 2017

Larry R. Lawrence | March 8, 2016

We battle discouragement and choose happiness when we cultivate a spirit of gratitude, look for the good in others, and uplift those around us.

devotional 2016

Rickelle Richards | February 9, 2016

There are many beauties of the earth that bless our lives, such as education, God’s creations, scriptures and modern-day prophets, and temples.

devotional 2016

Cheryl A. Esplin | February 3, 2015

To live a more abundant life, we must seek light and truth, have an eternal perspective, and feel and express gratitude.

devotional 2015

Ray L. Huntington | October 2, 2012

When we see blessings in our lives, feel thankfulness, and express gratitude, we are happier and our lives are more full.

devotional 2012

Parris K. Egbert | May 24, 2011

Our blessings, trials, and even advancements in modern technology are evidence of His love and we must confess the Lord's hand in all things.

devotional 2011

Sharon G. Samuelson | September 7, 2010

Gratitude not only makes the Lord happy, but makes us happy. A thankful heart has many reasons to rejoice, no matter the circumstances.

devotional 2010

Cecil O. Samuelson | April 26, 2007

As graduates celebrate their accomplishments, they cannot forget to be grateful for the support received from family, friends, and the Lord.

commencement 2007

Dick Cheney | April 26, 2007

United States Vice President Dick Cheney offers BYU graduates advice for success. He counsels them to take advantage of opportunities that come their way.

commencement 2007

President Thomas S. Monson, prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Thomas S. Monson | April 24, 2003

As graduating BYU students enter a new world, they are encouraged to reject any rejection that might come, like many successful people have.

commencement 2003

Joseph B. Wirthlin | October 31, 2000

By living with a spirit of thanksgiving we will become happier. Opening our eyes to the beauty around us will help foster gratitude in our lives.

devotional 2000

Rulon D. Pope | November 16, 1999

Gratitude is central to the service that we give and receive. By expression or action, gratitude is also essential to our faith.

devotional 1999

Russell M. Nelson—President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Russell M. Nelson | August 18, 1998

Russell M. Nelson shares his testimony of the mission and ministry of Christ, who exemplified the virtues of love, knowledge, and worship.

devotional 1998

Mary Ellen Edmunds | November 21, 1995

Much of our happiness depends not on what we have, but on our gratitude for it, and contentment can bring us lasting joy.

devotional 1995

Rex E. Lee | January 11, 1994

Many of us suffer from ingratitude, which deprives us and others of meaningful blessings. Gaining righteousness builds a spirit of gratitude.

devotional 1994

Marvin J. Ashton | September 1, 1991

Have we learned to give thanks in ALL things? A simple but heartfelt "thank you" can make all the difference in our relationships and character.

devotional 1991

Rex E. Lee | September 12, 1989

President Lee reflects on how the untimely deaths of two close friends, plus his own battle with cancer, have given him a new appreciation for life.

devotional 1989

Dee F. Anderson | November 26, 1985

Thanksgiving Day must be turned into a lifetime of showing gratitude. Thankfulness is expressed in words, but gratitude is shown by action.

devotional 1985

John B. Stohlton | November 20, 1984

Several years ago a close friend wrote a provocative little book that she entitled What Think You of Christmas? With all due credit to my friend, I’d like to pose the question to you: “What think you of Thanksgiving?” Is Thanksgiving celebrated in your home as a significant religious holiday, or is it a day filled with food, football, and plans to begin really serious Christmas shopping? It is symptomatic of our…

devotional 1984

Robert J. Smith | November 22, 1983

Robert J. Smith gives us some glances at the past that help us to be more thankful for the present and to act better in the future.

devotional 1983

Fred A. Schwendiman | November 23, 1982

My dear brothers and sisters. I am very grateful for the privilege accorded me to address you on the eve of the important Thanksgiving recognition we give to this Thursday’s holiday. I am confident that I am the most blessed of you all, as I have been privileged to be a member of the administrative staff of BYU for the past thirty years. It has brought important and special responsibilities…

devotional 1982

Jacob de Jager | January 19, 1982

Elder Jager lists just some of the blessings we receive by being part of BYU. Count your blessings frequently, and strive to live up to them.

devotional 1982

W. Rolfe Kerr | November 25, 1980

W. Rolfe Kerr encourages us to take a moment to express gratitude for the things that count in life, especially our friends, our freedoms, and our families.

devotional 1980

LeGrand Richards | November 18, 1980

We ought to cultivate a spirit of thanksgiving for the many blessings we have in the gospel—including the commandments, which are evidence of God's love.

devotional 1980

Elaine A. Cannon | June 1, 1976

Instead of shying away from the responsibilities of the gospel and family, learn to count your blessings and see these as privileges and opportunities.

devotional 1976

Marvin J. Ashton | April 13, 1976

Appreciation for what’s done for us is a great virtue—one that we need to understand and practice if we would get the most out of life.

devotional 1976

Harold Hansen | November 25, 1975

Thanksgiving is a time for remembering the good gifts of every day. Each time this day draws near the hearts of mankind are joined in grateful praise.

devotional 1975

Sterling W. Sill | November 11, 1975

The commemoration of Thanksgiving ought to last 365 days in the year. Let us do a little homework and think of those things we ought to be thankful for.

devotional 1975

Marion D. Hanks | October 28, 1975

Appreciate life. Appreciate and respect others. Appreciate your own spiritual heritage. Appreciate humility, responsibility, and keeping pledges.

devotional 1975

Stan H. Watts | November 27, 1971

The text for this speech is unavailable. Please see our FAQ page for more information.

devotional 1971

Swen C. Nielsen | October 24, 1970

The text for this speech is unavailable. Please see our FAQ page for more information.

devotional 1970

President Gordon B. Hinckley, prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Gordon B. Hinckley | October 13, 1964

Sometimes we need to take a step back and realize how lucky we are to have so many blessings in our lives - especially the gospel of Jesus Christ.

devotional 1964

Adam S. Bennion | January 31, 1956

After inviting Louise Lake to bear her testimony on the importance of gratitude in our trials, Adam S. Bennion counsels students to keep an upward reach toward heaven. Keep your spiritual channel open to receive God's revelations and blessings.

devotional 1956