Gratitude is one of the most powerful attitudes a believer can carry, yet it is also one of the most easily forgotten. In a world that constantly demands more and seldom pauses to give thanks, it’s no surprise that ungratefulness has become so common. From entitlement to complaining, the Bible speaks clearly about the heart condition behind ingratitude. Scripture reminds us that thankfulness is not just good manners—it is a posture of the heart that honors God.
Ungrateful people, whether they realize it or not, turn their eyes away from God’s goodness and focus only on what they lack. It can show up in relationships, where appreciation is withheld, or in spiritual life, where God’s blessings are taken for granted. But God’s Word calls us to live differently.
Being thankful is a sign of spiritual maturity and a reflection of our trust in God’s provision. Whether we are dealing with others who are ungrateful or examining our own hearts, Scripture brings wisdom, correction, and encouragement. These verses will open your eyes to what the Bible really says about ungrateful people and help you grow in grace and gratitude.
Bible Verses About Ungrateful People
1. 2 Timothy 3:2
People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy.
2. Romans 1:21
For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him.
3. Luke 6:35
But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great… because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.
4. Philippians 2:14–15
Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure.
5. Colossians 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… And be thankful.
6. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
7. Psalm 100:4
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
8. Numbers 11:1
Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of the Lord, and when he heard them his anger was aroused.
9. Deuteronomy 8:10–11
When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God… Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God.
10. Luke 17:17–18
Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?
11. Psalm 106:7
When our ancestors were in Egypt, they gave no thought to your miracles; they did not remember your many kindnesses.
12. Proverbs 17:13
Evil will never leave the house of one who pays back evil for good.
13. Isaiah 1:2–3
I reared children and brought them up, but they have rebelled against me… My people do not understand.
14. Job 2:10
Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?
15. Malachi 1:6
A son honors his father, and a slave his master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me?
16. Hebrews 12:28
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful.
17. Matthew 15:8
These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.
18. Exodus 16:3
The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the Lord’s hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat…”
19. Jeremiah 2:5
They followed worthless idols and became worthless themselves.
20. Psalm 78:11
They forgot what he had done, the wonders he had shown them.
21. Titus 1:16
They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him.
22. James 1:17
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.
23. Proverbs 30:11
There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers.
24. Isaiah 5:20
Woe to those who call evil good and good evil…
25. Psalm 107:8–9
Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love… for he satisfies the thirsty.
26. Romans 12:21
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
27. Proverbs 14:9
Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright.
28. Matthew 7:6
Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs.
29. Isaiah 63:10
Yet they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit. So he turned and became their enemy.
30. Jeremiah 5:23–24
But these people have stubborn and rebellious hearts… They do not say to themselves, ‘Let us fear the Lord our God.’
31. Luke 12:19–20
And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.” But God said to him, “You fool!”
32. Deuteronomy 32:6
Is this the way you repay the Lord, you foolish and unwise people?
33. Psalm 50:22
Consider this, you who forget God, or I will tear you to pieces, with no one to rescue you.
34. Jonah 4:2
I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love.
35. 2 Peter 2:20–21
It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than to have known it and then turn their backs.
Our Thoughts On what the Bible Says about Ungrateful People
Ungratefulness reveals more than just poor manners—it reflects the heart’s distance from God. The Bible often links ingratitude with rebellion, pride, and even destruction. When someone fails to acknowledge the goodness of God or the kindness of others, they shut themselves off from growth, grace, and healing.
The stories in Scripture show us what happens when people forget God’s blessings or refuse to give thanks. But they also reveal the beauty and power of a thankful heart. Gratitude draws us closer to God, keeps us humble, and opens our eyes to His ongoing work in our lives. If you’ve ever dealt with someone ungrateful or struggled with it yourself, know that God invites us to choose thankfulness and walk in light. There is always something to be grateful for.
Say This Prayer
Lord, I thank You for all that You have done for me. Forgive me for the times I have been ungrateful, for the blessings I took for granted, and for the people I failed to appreciate. Help me never to forget Your goodness. Teach me to be thankful in every season and to show kindness even when it’s not returned. If I am ever surrounded by ungrateful people, give me grace and discernment. Let my life reflect a heart that honors You and sees the good in every situation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.