en_bc/articles/thanksgiving.md

# Thanksgiving

The words “thanksgiving” or “giving thanks” are used to talk about people expressing gratitude or appreciation for something. In the Bible, the words “thanksgiving” or “giving thanks” were used when someone thanked God for the good things he does for people. In the Bible, people gave thanks by offering sacrifices to God, praising God, rejoicing, and singing  (see: Leviticus 7:12-15; Ezra 3:11; Nehemiah 12:8; Psalm 69:30; Isaiah 51:3).

See: [Praise](../articles/praise.md);[Rejoice (Joy, Joyful)](../articles/rejoice.md); [Sacrifice](../articles/sacrifice.md)

#### More Information About This Topic

The apostle Paul gave thanks to God as part of his prayers. He did this when praying for the people of the churches he helped start (see: 1 Thessalonians 1:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:3).  He wanted people to thank God when they prayed and worshiped God (see: 1 Corinthians 1:4; Ephesians 5:4; Philippians 4:6; Colossians 2:7; 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

See: [Apostle](../articles/apostle.md); [Pray (Prayer)](../articles/prayprayer.md); [Church](../articles/church.md); [Worship](../articles/worship.md)