Friends and family are some of God’s greatest gifts. They walk with us through life’s highs and lows, share in our joys, comfort us in sorrow, and help shape who we are.
The Bible encourages us not only to love our family and friends, but also to be thankful for them—expressing gratitude to God for the people He’s placed in our lives.
In this post, we’ll look at 15 meaningful Bible verses about thankfulness for friends and family that can help you celebrate the people you cherish and inspire you to thank God for their presence in your life.
Key Takeaways Before We Begin
- Thankfulness strengthens relationships and honors God.
- Scripture encourages us to give thanks not just for things, but for people.
- Expressing gratitude for others helps us focus on love, unity, and appreciation.
- These verses are perfect for prayer, journaling, or sharing with loved ones.
15 Bible Verses About Thankfulness for Friends and Family
1. Philippians 1:3
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you.
Explanation:
Paul expresses deep gratitude for the believers in Philippi. This is a perfect verse to reflect your thankfulness for friends and family who have blessed your life.
2. 1 Thessalonians 1:2
We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers.
Explanation:
Genuine love leads to prayer and thanksgiving. This verse reminds us to regularly thank God for the people who matter most.
3. Proverbs 17:17
A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Explanation:
True friends and family stand with us in every season. Their loyalty and love are reasons to give thanks daily.
4. Colossians 1:3
We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you.
Explanation:
This verse is another example of Paul’s continual thankfulness for those he loved. Gratitude in prayer strengthens relationships.
5. Ephesians 1:16
Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers.
Explanation:
Thankfulness and intercession go hand in hand. This verse encourages us to lift up our loved ones in prayer and thank God for them regularly.
6. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.
For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow.
Explanation:
Friends and family provide support and strength. This verse celebrates the beauty of partnership and mutual care.
7. Romans 1:8
First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.
Explanation:
Paul shows gratitude not just for people, but for the faith and influence they bring. It’s a reminder to celebrate both who they are and what they do.
8. Psalm 133:1
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
Explanation:
Unity in families and friendships is a blessing. When peace and love define our relationships, that is something to thank God for every day.
9. 1 Corinthians 1:4
I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ.
Explanation:
Gratitude grows when we recognize God’s work in others. This verse teaches us to be thankful for the spiritual growth of those around us.
10. 2 Timothy 1:3
I thank God, whom I serve… that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day.
Explanation:
Even from a distance, we can express gratitude for those we love by remembering them in prayer often.
11. Galatians 6:2
Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
Explanation:
Helping and supporting each other reflects the love of Christ. This kind of relationship is worth celebrating and thanking God for.
12. Proverbs 27:9
Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man’s friend by hearty counsel.
Explanation:
Good friends bring wisdom, joy, and comfort. Their presence is as sweet and refreshing as fragrance.
13. Philemon 1:4
I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers.
Explanation:
Paul expresses regular gratitude for his dear friend Philemon. This verse reminds us that thankfulness should be constant, not occasional.
14. Psalm 100:4
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
Explanation:
This verse calls us to live with a spirit of gratitude toward God—including being thankful for the people He’s placed in our lives.
15. 3 John 1:4
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
Explanation:
For parents and family members, there is deep joy in seeing loved ones grow in faith. This is a heartfelt reason to thank God continually.
Final Thoughts: A Grateful Heart for the People God Has Given
These Bible verses about thankfulness for friends and family remind us to slow down and thank God for the relationships that shape and bless us. Whether you’re celebrating a close friendship, a faithful spouse, loving parents, or growing children—gratitude brings light and joy to your heart.
Take time today to tell someone you’re thankful for them—and tell God too.
What About You?
Is there someone in your life you’re especially thankful for right now?
Which verse spoke to your heart the most?
Share your thoughts or favorite verse in the comments. Let’s celebrate the gift of friends and family together.