10 Bible Verses to Inspire Gratitude in Tough Times (KJV)
When life feels overwhelming, it can be hard to see reasons to be thankful. Yet the Bible is filled with scriptures on gratitude that remind us of God’s goodness, even in seasons of hardship. Choosing thankfulness isn’t about pretending everything is fine — it’s about trusting that the Lord is still at work. In this post, we’ll look at 10 powerful Bible verses about gratitude in tough times from the King James Version (KJV). Whether you’re searching for Bible verses about giving thanks in trials, gratitude scriptures in the Bible, or simply encouragement to lift your spirit, these passages will help you focus on God’s faithfulness instead of your fears.
1. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
This is one of the most well-known gratitude scriptures in the Bible. It reminds us that giving thanks is not optional — it’s God’s will for His children, no matter the season.
2. Psalm 34:1
I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
David penned this verse in a moment of danger, showing us that thankfulness in the Bible often comes from those in distress, not just in peace.
3. Philippians 4:6-7
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
One of the most comforting KJV bible verses for gratitude in hard times — gratitude and prayer invite God’s peace to guard your heart.
4. Habakkuk 3:17-18
Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines… Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.
This verse shows that thankfulness in tough times is a choice rooted in joy for who God is, not in what we have.
5. Psalm 100:4
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
Thanksgiving is how we enter into God’s presence. This verse is often cited in lists of Bible verses about thankfulness in trials because it redirects our focus toward worship.
6. Colossians 3:15
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Letting God’s peace rule means surrendering control and allowing gratitude to shape your perspective.
7. Psalm 103:2-4
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies.
One of the most beautiful gratitude scriptures in the Bible — it calls us to remember and rehearse God’s blessings.
8. James 1:17
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
This verse reminds us that Bible verses about gratitude often point back to God’s unchanging nature and generosity.
9. Lamentations 3:22-23
It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
A key scripture on thankfulness in hard times — every sunrise is proof of God’s mercy and faithfulness.
10. 2 Corinthians 4:15-16
For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. For which cause we faint not…
Paul reminds us that gratitude in the Bible is often tied to God’s glory, even in suffering.
Final Thoughts
These Bible verses about gratitude in hard times show that thankfulness is not reserved for easy days — it is a declaration of trust in the God who holds every moment. When we practice gratitude, even in trials, we strengthen our faith, experience God’s peace, and shine His light to others.
If you’re feeling weary, choose one of these gratitude scriptures in the Bible to memorize and pray over daily. God will use His Word to shift your perspective and fill your heart with hope.
If these verses inspire your heart today, share them with a friend or save them to come back to later. You might enjoy taking your gratitude practice even further. Our guide, 30 Days of Gratitude: A Verse for Each New Day (KJV), provides a full month of daily scripture to help you cultivate a habit of thankfulness and deepen your connection with God’s Word.
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From the Author
If you’ve made it this far, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I hope you take these Bible verses and let them fill your hard with gratitude, peace and perspective, helping you navigate life’s difficult moments. Wherever life finds you, always remember to keep walking The Grateful Path.
One step at a time, with a thankful heart, along the Grateful Path.
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