J.J. Hairston - I Am Thankful Lyrics
Lyrics
Lord you’ve done so much for me
You’ve given me everything I need
With chaos around I still choose to say
Lord I thank you for every way you’ve made
Hallelujah I’m thankful to you lord
Hallelujah I’m thankful to you lord
For all you’ve done, and all you’ll ever do
Hallelujah, I’m thankful to you
Oh, I am thankful
I am thankful
I am thankful
I am thankful Lord
I am thankful
Lord you’ve done so much for me
You’ve given me everything I need
With chaos around I still choose to say
Lord I thank you for every way you’ve made
Hallelujah I’m thankful to you lord
Hallelujah I’m thankful to you lord
For all you’ve done, and all you’ll ever do
Hallelujah, I’m thankful to you
Oh, I am thankful
I am thankful
I am thankful
I am thankful Lord
I am thankful
Video
Thankful | JJ Hairston
Meaning & Inspiration
J.J. Hairston's "I Am Thankful," released on January 1, 2021, as part of his album *Not Holding Back*, emerges as a powerful declaration of faith and an anthem of unwavering gratitude. This song is more than a musical composition; it's a testament to spiritual resilience, offering a profound reflection on the perpetual goodness of God even when life’s circumstances present their fiercest challenges. Its message resonates deeply with anyone seeking to anchor their spirit in divine providence, turning attention away from surrounding chaos to the steady hand of the Creator.
The essence of "I Am Thankful" lies in its simple yet profound narrative: a believer acknowledging God's boundless provision and choosing gratitude above all else. The opening lines, expressing that God has "done so much for me" and "given me everything I need," immediately establish a foundation of divine sufficiency. This mirrors the biblical promise found in Philippians 4:19, which assures us that "My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." It’s an affirmation that despite outward appearances or perceived lack, God’s generosity ensures our fundamental needs are met. This theme echoes throughout Scripture, notably in Psalm 23:1, proclaiming, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want," highlighting a state of contentment and trust in the Shepherd's care.
The song then shifts to a crucial declaration: "With chaos around I still choose to say / Lord I thank you for every way you’ve made." This isn’t merely passive thankfulness but an active, deliberate decision to express gratitude amidst turmoil. This choice is a cornerstone of Christian endurance, perfectly aligning with 1 Thessalonians 5:18, which commands us to "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." It’s a spiritual discipline that transforms perspective, reminding us that even in trials, God is at work, orchestrating paths and purposes we may not yet fully discern. Romans 8:28 further reinforces this, assuring us that "for those who love God all things work together for good," underscoring that even the "ways made" through difficulty are part of a divine plan.
The chorus, with its repeated "Hallelujah I’m thankful to you Lord," and the comprehensive acknowledgement "For all you’ve done, and all you’ll ever do," encapsulates a holistic appreciation for God’s eternal faithfulness. This gratitude extends beyond present blessings to encompass His historical interventions and future promises. It is a recognition of God as immutable, consistent in His character and love—a truth celebrated in Hebrews 13:8, which states, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." This declaration of thankfulness for past actions and future deeds speaks to a deep trust in God’s sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to His people, drawing parallels to Lamentations 3:22-23, which proclaims, "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Finally, the song’s emphatic, repetitive chant, "Oh, I am thankful / I am thankful Lord," serves as a powerful, worshipful affirmation. It's a personal declaration that moves beyond mere acknowledgment to an embodied state of gratitude, inviting a similar response from anyone engaging with the track. This isn't just a casual expression; it's a heartfelt outpouring that positions thankfulness as a primary form of worship, directly in line with Psalm 100:4, urging us to "Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise!" It solidifies the song's message that a grateful heart is a worshipping heart, and that every aspect of our lives, as Colossians 3:17 suggests, should be offered "in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." "I Am Thankful" is an impactful reminder that genuine faith often expresses itself as profound gratitude, shaping our perspective and strengthening our resolve through all seasons of life.