Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving.

Purkiser contrasts verbal gratitude with enacted gratitude. The quote argues that thanksgiving is not primarily a matter of pious language, public testimony, or emotional appreciation, but of stewardship—how blessings are converted into concrete good: generosity, service, ethical choices, and care for others. It implies that blessings carry obligations; to “use” them well is to align one’s resources (time, money, talents, opportunities) with purposes beyond self-display. The saying also critiques performative religiosity: gratitude that remains in speech can become self-congratulation, whereas gratitude expressed in action becomes a moral measure of character.