I am convinced and confident...that He who has begun a good work in you will perfect and complete it.
- Philippians 1:3
What a relief!
All the things I am here to do are under His management.
He has begun good things in me and will not fail to push them forward.
Paul was so confident and encouraged about who God was.
We may not like ourselves some days or see the progress, but God does.
Trusting God is much more important than trusting yourself.
TODAY: Let me believe your word over my feelings. I trust you to carry me, prompt me and push me because you love me.
Thank the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us. Colossians 1:12 (MSG)
With Love,
Paper Sunday
Gratitude has a way of shifting our perspective. When we pause to remember and give thanks, we begin to see God’s presence in places we might have overlooked. Take a moment to reflect on the people and experiences that fill your heart with thankfulness.
Journal & Reflect
- Who are the people in your life that you’re especially thankful for right now?
- When was the last time you expressed that gratitude to them?
- How has God used others to encourage or strengthen your faith?
- What is one intentional way you can show appreciation today?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Philippians 1:3 mean?
It expresses a heart of gratitude—thanking God for others and recognizing the role they play in our spiritual journey.
Why is gratitude important in faith?
Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s lacking to what God has already provided, strengthening our trust and joy.
How can I practice gratitude daily?
By intentionally reflecting on blessings, thanking God in prayer, and expressing appreciation to others regularly.
Does gratitude really change perspective?
Yes, it helps reframe challenges and reminds us of God’s faithfulness, even in difficult seasons.
Prayer
God, Thank You for the people You’ve placed in my life. Help me to never take them for granted. Grow a heart of gratitude in me that sees Your goodness in every season. Teach me to express thankfulness not just in words, but through love and action. Amen.
Message from Kara Heckel, founder of Paper Sunday
Philippians 1:3 always brings me back to something simple but powerful—gratitude for people. It reminds me how often God works through others to encourage us, support us, and help shape our faith. This devotional is a small invitation to pause and notice those gifts again. The people in your life matter deeply, and so does taking the time to thank God for them. I’m really grateful you’re here, walking through this with us.
Applying this to your Daily Routine
Take time to reflect, pray, and process what God is teaching you through every season. Our Personalized Prayer Journal was designed to help you grow deeper in faith—one day at a time–turning intention into habit. Many people use journals to revisit verses like these and reflect throughout the week.
Today's devotional pairs beautifully with the Hills & Valleys by Jenn Thatcher- Personalized Scripture Journal
2 comments
Sue E Stroefer
I can’t express how grateful I am for your new format. I’m learning so much and using it in my journal. So many of the prayers I’m writing in my journal. I have had a lot of Biblical education, including four years of Education for Ministry, but I’m learning more through your devotions and actually internalizing the teachings more than anything I’ve taken part in before. I look forward to you devotional every day. Thank you so much. God bless. Sue
I can’t express how grateful I am for your new format. I’m learning so much and using it in my journal. So many of the prayers I’m writing in my journal. I have had a lot of Biblical education, including four years of Education for Ministry, but I’m learning more through your devotions and actually internalizing the teachings more than anything I’ve taken part in before. I look forward to you devotional every day. Thank you so much. God bless. Sue
Shari
Thank you for these daily devotionals. They’re apart of my daily morning reading. I really enjoy the extended content you provide with the devotions. You’re an inspiration in my walk with Christ.
Thank you for these daily devotionals. They’re apart of my daily morning reading. I really enjoy the extended content you provide with the devotions. You’re an inspiration in my walk with Christ.