Gratitude (Christianity)

Christians believe that all they have and are come from the grace of God, that they live through God's grace. The appropriate response to the gift of grace is gratitude (both words come from the same Greek root). Gratitude for past benefits is seen as a more worthy motive for moral life now than future punishment or reward. It is a virtue linked to justice. Although some may consider it an "optional" virtue, which has to arrive spontaneously and cannot be forced, others look on gratitude as a moral obligation from recipient to donor. This moral obligation is significant in the personal relationship it implies between recipient and donor and also in the larger cultural setting of obligation as a practice of social morality, because a gift, although given, still implies links with the giver and the intention in giving the gift. It must be followed not only by grateful conduct towards the giver but also by grateful use of the gift in accordance with the donor's intentions. These duties are not in a position to be demanded by the donor and the recipient may choose how and whether to fulfil implied obligations.

The enrichment of life by persons or powers outside the individual logically implies generosity to others on the part of the recipient. This enrichment arises when the gift is given as expressing generosity and benevolence. As an instrument of domination it elicits resentment.