Praise First! — A Thanksgiving Reflection

What Does “Praise First” Mean?

As we approach Canadian Thanksgiving, we’re reminded that gratitude isn’t just a holiday—it’s a way of life.
When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He began with “Our Father… hallowed be Your name.”
He started with praise before petitions.

To praise first means beginning every prayer and every day with thanksgiving—because God’s goodness doesn’t depend on our circumstances.

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.” — Psalm 100:4


Three Ways to Praise First
  1. Start with gratitude – Like Jesus, thank God before asking.

  2. Count your blessings – Write them down; remembering fuels faith.

  3. Stay around praisers – Joy grows in community, not isolation.

When you focus on God, problems shrink; when you focus on problems, joy fades.

Thanksgiving Takeaway

This Thanksgiving 2025, make praise your first response and gratitude your daily rhythm.
Before the meal, the prayer list, or the plans—praise first.
That’s where peace begins.


Prayer

“Lord, thank You for Your unchanging goodness.
Teach me to praise You first and to stay thankful in every season. Amen.”


📍 Join Us in Calgary

Celebrate Thanksgiving Sunday at Peace Church Global — a place of joy, worship, and family.
🕘 9:30 AM 📍 Calgary, AB 🌐 peacechurchglobal.org