15 Grateful Bible Verses to Read Around the BBQ Table

Whether you’re gathered in the backyard with family, flipping burgers, or enjoying grilled veggies with friends, there’s something sacred about sharing a meal together. The BBQ table is a place of laughter, connection, and gratitude—making it the perfect setting to reflect on God’s goodness.
These Bible verses celebrate thankfulness, togetherness, and the simple joy of fellowship. Each one serves as a heartfelt reminder of why we gather, give thanks, and break bread with the ones we love. Let these verses inspire moments of reflection and gratitude at your next BBQ.

1. Grateful Hearts Bring Peace: Colossians 3:15

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

This verse reminds us that gratitude and peace go hand in hand. As you sit around the table with loved ones, let your heart be ruled not by stress or worry, but by Christ’s peace. A BBQ gathering is more than just food—it’s a celebration of community. When we recognize that we are all part of one body, thankfulness becomes second nature and peace follows closely behind.

2. Every Good Thing is a Gift: James 1:17

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
That delicious plate of BBQ and the laughter around the table? All of it is a gift from God. James reminds us that every blessing—big or small—is a perfect gift from above. Around the grill or at the picnic table, take a moment to acknowledge the goodness that surrounds you. From the food to the fellowship, it’s all part of God’s unchanging love.

3. Giving Thanks Always: 1 Thessalonians 5:18

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Even if the potato salad’s a bit salty or the weather isn’t perfect, this verse encourages us to give thanks in all things. Gratitude isn’t about perfect conditions—it’s about a heart aligned with God’s will. When we make thankfulness our constant posture, even an ordinary BBQ becomes an opportunity to worship and rejoice in God’s daily grace.

4. Taste and See His Goodness: Psalm 34:8

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”
Nothing ties food and faith together quite like this verse. As you savor the flavors of grilled meats, veggies, and sweet summer treats, let your soul also savor God’s goodness. Psalm 34:8 is an invitation to experience the richness of God’s love firsthand—just as tangibly and enjoyably as a warm meal with friends.

5. Praise Through Gratitude: Psalm 100:4

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” Psalm 100:4 sets the tone for any gathering—start with thanksgiving. Whether you’re passing the ribs or pouring sweet tea, let each action be done with a thankful heart. It’s more than good manners—it’s a way of praising God. Gratitude opens the door to deeper joy and connection with the people and the Savior who blesses us.

6. Grateful Living is Worship: Romans 12:1

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

Romans 12:1 encourages us to see our whole lives—including meals, conversations, and leisure—as acts of worship. Sharing food and expressing gratitude can be a holy offering. Around the BBQ table, your thankfulness, kindness, and generosity are ways to honor God and reflect His mercy to those around you.

7. A Reminder to Bless the Lord: Psalm 103:1-2

“Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”
Sometimes we forget just how much we’ve been given. Psalm 103 calls us to remember every blessing—especially in the moments we feel full and content. That full stomach? That joyful company? Those are benefits worth praising God for. Use this verse to remind everyone at the table to bless the Lord for all He’s done.

8. Contentment in All Seasons: Philippians 4:11-12

“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances… I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation…”
Whether you’re hosting a backyard feast or having a humble cookout with hot dogs and chips, this verse teaches us that true contentment isn’t about the spread—it’s about the spirit. Gratitude doesn’t depend on abundance; it thrives in a heart that’s learned to see every moment as enough. Paul’s words remind us to embrace contentment in every season.

9. Satisfying Our Souls and Stomachs: Psalm 107:9

“For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.”
This verse is a perfect fit for any meal setting. While we fill our plates and enjoy the bounty before us, it’s important to remember who the true provider is. God not only meets our physical needs—He fills our spiritual hunger too. This verse encourages us to recognize God as the ultimate source of satisfaction, both for our bodies and our hearts.

10. Giving Thanks as a Way of Life: Ephesians 5:20

“Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Gratitude isn’t a seasonal practice—it’s a daily way of life. Ephesians 5:20 encourages us to give thanks in everything, every day, through Christ. Whether it’s a big family cookout or a quiet dinner on the patio, every bite and every moment is a reason to be thankful. Let this verse set the tone for your BBQ: joyful, present, and full of grace.

11. The Lord is Our Provider: Philippians 4:19

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
At the BBQ table, we often talk about what we have and what we want, but this verse reminds us of God’s promise to provide for every need. Whether it’s food on the grill or something deeper, God’s provision is abundant and faithful. Trusting in His provision helps us enjoy the moment with gratitude, knowing that everything good in our lives is a blessing from Him.

12. A Heart Overflowing with Thanks: Psalm 95:2

“Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.”
This verse calls us to approach God with gratitude that overflows into praise. Around the BBQ, with the smell of food and the sounds of laughter, it’s a wonderful opportunity to literally or figuratively “sing” praises. Sharing joyful thanks makes the moment richer, reminding us that gratitude is not just an internal feeling but an expression that brings us closer to God and one another.

13. Gratitude in God’s Presence: Psalm 16:11

“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

As we enjoy earthly pleasures like a good meal and good company, this verse points to the ultimate joy found in God’s presence. Our gratitude around the BBQ table can be a reflection of the deeper joy God promises—a joy that lasts beyond the moment and the meal, filling us with peace and contentment no matter the circumstances.

14. Thankfulness for God’s Faithfulness: Lamentations 3:22-23

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
This verse is a powerful reminder that every day is a fresh chance to be thankful. Even in tough times, God’s mercy and love are constant. When you gather around the BBQ table, you can celebrate not only the food but the unending faithfulness of God, who renews His grace daily and sustains us through every season of life.

15. Joy in Giving Thanks: Nehemiah 8:10

“Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
This verse encourages us to find strength and joy in the Lord through thanksgiving. It’s a beautiful reminder that gratitude isn’t just polite—it’s powerful. At your BBQ, embracing joy through thanks can uplift spirits and strengthen relationships, making the gathering a true celebration of life’s blessings and God’s enduring love.