Thanksgiving is more than a celebration of family and feasting—it’s a moment to reflect on the many blessings in our lives and offer gratitude to God. This year, the NRT team shares the songs that inspire their hearts to give thanks, each serving as a personal reminder of God’s goodness, faithfulness, and love. Whether through lyrics of surrender, declarations of hope, or reminders to cherish life’s fleeting moments, these tracks help us express our gratitude for all He’s done.
“Thank You Song” by UPPERROOM
I love “Thank You Song” by worship band UPPERROOM because it expresses gratitude to God for all He has done, is doing, and will do in the future. It’s a song of surrender, devotion, and trust that God is faithful and worthy of our praise.
I’m thankful for so many things. I’m grateful for salvation and the ability to have a relationship with my creator. I’m grateful for our freedom to read the Bible in America. I’m thankful for a husband who loves and adores me, is an outstanding cook, and makes me laugh continually. I’m grateful for my amazing Rigel and Henriquez family and my millions of besties who are like family. I am thankful for Reese’s cups, sunsets on Lake Michigan, and my candle apple red car that just got paid off. I’m grateful for good music, laughter, a safe and comfortable home, and tacos. I’m thankful for our hope in Jesus and the promise of eternity.
One of my favorite verses is 1 Thessalonians 5:18: "In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” - Janice Henriquez
“Happy Wedding Day (Alex's Song)” by Skillet
“Happy Wedding Day (Alex's Song)” by famous Christian rock band Skillet doesn't immediately scream a "thankful" song at first listen. Perhaps it's weird, but as a new father to a baby boy, I identify with this song from the perspective of a father whose daughter just got married. For me and my son, how fast time is already going is a wonder. Trying to catch and appreciate those moments while they occur is a goal and often a struggle. As someone just beginning the journey that Skillet’s lead vocalist, John Cooper, reflects on in this song, it serves as encouragement to appreciate life’s moments now because they pass so quickly. I think about the future and how I hope to look back with gratitude one day on these moments, like in this song. And that starts with being thankful right now. - J.J. Francesco
"Mighty God" by NCS Collective
Words like "thankful" and "grateful" are typically tied to mountaintop moments. But sometimes, we need to be grateful that the valley is the lifeline we need to keep going. "Mighty God," the debut single from worship band NCS Collective featuring musician Coby James, highlights that strength only comes from the Lord Almighty. "Never a moment That You had lost control/The cross was the answer/Before You said, 'It’s finished!”/You had already won.'" To be grateful for Christ conquering all is to cherish at the top, the bottom, and every moment. - Kevin McNeese
“Thank God I Do” by Lauren Daigle
“Thank God I Do” by famous Christian artist Lauren Daigle spoke to me at a very dark time in my life and my marriage. I felt alone. I felt broken. I didn’t feel God in the muck with me whatsoever. But he was. God spoke to me through this song: “I don't know who I'd be if I didn't know You/I'd probably fall off the edge/I don't know where I'd go if You ever let go/So keep me held in Your hands.” God calls us to hear his voice. But you can’t hear His voice if you aren’t listening. And God was patient. When I was ready, I heard His voice clearly through Lauren Daigle. I forgot that my music is my spiritual connection, so the next time I need to hear God’s voice, I’ll turn on some tunes and wait to listen. - Paul E. Phillips
"Gratitude" by Brandon Lake
I love the opening of this song as it is so true: “All my words fall short. I got nothing new. How could I express/All my gratitude?” How could I not be eternally grateful when I think about all that Jesus has done for me? I like how Brandon Lake’s lyrics keep this song simple. Each year, as we get closer to Thanksgiving, I experience a deep gratitude for family, friends, and Jesus’s atoning sacrifice. This song helps to evoke and keep that feeling going all year long!
The verse that always comes to mind when I hear this song is Philippians 4: 4-6: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” - DJ Tommy G
Assembled from the four corners of North America and many other corners in between, the NRTeam comprises staffers whose energy is equally dispersed towards loving and writing about the music they love. ChatGPT provided some assistance with this article.
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