In the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we can so easily lose sight of the blessings that surround us. We oftentimes focus on what we’re missing or the struggles we face, forgetting the richness of God’s provision. As we step into this time of thanksgiving, Brandon Lake’s song “Gratitude” is a powerful reminder to pause, lift our eyes to heaven, and thank God for His goodness no matter our circumstances.
The song begins with a humble admission: “All my words fall short; I got nothing new. How could I express all my gratitude?”
This echoes the sentiment many of us feel when we approach God. How can we adequately thank Him for His love, His sacrifice, and the breath in our lungs?
But Brandon’s response is simple and profound: “I throw up my hands and praise You again and again…And I know it’s not much, but I’ve nothing else fit for a King except for a heart singing hallelujah.”
These lyrics remind us that God doesn’t ask for perfection; He desires a sincere heart. So many times we think we have to be “good enough” or “ready” before we come before the Lord. We overlook the fact that He desires us just as we are. The act of worship—through song, prayer, or simple acknowledgement—is our way of giving back to God on the good days and the bad days.
This song calls us to offer God whatever we have, even when it feels small. Gratitude is not about grand gestures or eloquent words. It’s about a full surrendering of yourself—saying, “God, even in my confusion, I trust You. Even in my pain, I thank You.”
The world conditions us to praise only when things go well. But the kind of gratitude that pleases God happens in every season. It’s the hallelujah we whisper in the valleys, the song we sing in the storms, and the worship we bring in the victories.
In the bridge of the song, Brandon sings, “Come on, my soul; oh, don’t you get shy on me. Lift up your song.”
This line reminds us that gratitude is not passive—it’s an active declaration of faith. When we worship in the face of difficulty, we’re engaging in spiritual warfare. We’re declaring that God is enough, that His faithfulness outweighs our circumstances.
David modeled this in the Psalms. In Psalm 34:1 he proclaims, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
David didn’t praise God only when life was easy. He praised Him when he was on the run, in a cave, and on the throne.
Take a moment to listen to “Gratitude” and let it move you to reflect on your own life. What do you have to be thankful for today? Perhaps it’s the sunrise you watched, the family you love, or the strength to face another day.
Press pause on the busyness of life, lift your hands, and simply say, “Thank You, Lord.” Whether you have a song to sing or just a quiet hallelujah, God cherishes your gratitude.
“Gratitude” is more than a song—it’s an invitation to live with a heart focused on heaven, singing praises to the One who deserves it all. Let it inspire you to walk through this holiday season with open hands and a thankful spirit.