How to Show Gratitude by Using Your Words

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Quick Summary

How to show gratitude in words is more simple than you think: write one note, send one text, or slip one card to someone today. A few kind, written words can brighten a day, strengthen a relationship, and remind someone they matter.

“One kind word can change someone’s entire day.” Anonymous

So far we’ve talked about the spiritual, mental, and physical benefits of cultivating a grateful heart as well as:

• 5-Day Gratitude Challenge for Moms: Grow a Thankful Heart
• How to Cultivate a Grateful Heart: 6 Ways to Start Today
• How to Start Growing in a Habit of Gratitude Right Now (including how to start a gratitude journal)
• How to Choose Gratitude Through Your Day: A Simple Start

Just the process of writing in a gratitude journal offers tons of benefits. Writing can be powerful. Sharing your written words of appreciation and encouragement with others can have an even bigger impact than journaling privately. Personal notes can really build a person up and brighten their day. Let’s take a look at why you may want to show your gratitude with words, starting today. Wink!

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Words of Gratitude Have Power

In a busy world, we can easily get caught up in our to-do lists and everything we feel we must accomplish each day. It’s so easy to forget to acknowledge the important people in our lives (especially those closest to us). For exactly this reason, receiving a note of thanks or appreciation is so meaningful. The truth is that people simply don’t receive notes of gratitude or notes of encouragement on a regular basis. That’s why setting aside the time and taking the effort to write a note is so powerful, for both you and the receiver!

May the LORD now show you kindness and faithfulness, and I too will show you the same favor because you have done this. 2 Samuel 2:6

What Does the Bible Say About Kind Words?

Scripture is full of encouragement for the words we choose. Gratitude spoken or written is one of the simplest ways to live it out.

Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. Proverbs 16:24

Sharing Gratitude Encourages Others and Strengthens Relationships

A personal note or message goes that extra step further to show you care. Words have meaning, but it’s often said that actions speak louder. Chances are the recipient of your note will be surprised to receive it. An encouraging or positive surprise almost always improves someone’s day and mood! This can be especially impactful if you intentionally send your message to someone you know is going through a rough season. Don’t be afraid to ask God to bring to mind someone who needs to be encouraged with a gratitude note. He loves to answer that prayer!

We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers. 1 Thessalonians 1:2

Hard season or not, this small gesture goes far to strengthen existing relationships because it’s such a thoughtful act. You are putting others above yourself and taking the time out of your busy day to encourage them. Your written acknowledgment of their importance in your life will certainly build them up and affect your relationship in a positive way. The Greater Good Science Center also notes that focusing on people, rather than things, has more impact when you practice gratitude.

Writing Notes of Gratitude: Ideas to Get You Started

Your words of gratitude don’t have to be in handwritten form, though it’s really a nice touch that’s a rarity these days. When was the last time you received a handwritten note? See? Special! 🙂 But if that’s not your “thing,” it’s ok.

Can a Text Message Show Gratitude?

Absolutely. Even an encouraging text or quick email can be a gift to the heart. Your message doesn’t have to be long, either. A short text of gratitude is still a way to show gratitude, and any written words of appreciation will be a start and can be quite meaningful.

Ways to Show Gratitude in Writing

• Drop a note of encouragement or love in your child’s lunchbox (we have FREE lunchbox notes here!)
• Slip a little love letter (or love scripture card) into your husband’s coat pocket
• Mail your best friend a funny card with a personal note of appreciation and a Bible verse just because
• Text your friend a note of support and encouragement on a difficult day
• Give your ministry leaders, teachers, or childcare worker a written message thanking them for all of their help and support
• Write a letter to a loved one sharing your gratitude for God placing them in your life!
• And one of my favorites … write a bedtime note to your child to thank them for being yours and to build them up!

This is just a short list to spark your own creativity. We also have more examples of notes of encouragement and scripture cards in our FREEBIES Hub of Biblical Resources!

Don’t forget to share your words of gratitude with old friends, extended relatives, neighbors, and other meaningful people in your life. As I said, God loves to bring people to mind who need a little encouragement! Try to take on this practice daily, at least for a while. You’ll see that the momentum can lead to some pretty awesome results!

Final Thoughts

So what do you say? Ready to take that step? Learning how to show gratitude in words doesn’t take a big plan. It takes one note, one text, one card. I’m challenging you to write one note of gratitude to someone today!

Let me know when you’re done! Message me (found in the bottom right corner), email, comment below or share in our Imperfect Moms Facebook Group!

The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.Numbers 6:24-26

Here’s What We Have Explored Over the 5-Day Challenge

• 5-Day Gratitude Challenge for Moms: Grow a Thankful Heart
• How to Cultivate a Grateful Heart: 6 Ways to Start Today
• How to Start Growing in a Habit of Gratitude Right Now (including how to start a gratitude journal)
• How to Choose Gratitude Through Your Day: A Simple Start
• How to Show Gratitude by Using Your Words (you are here)

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