An Attitude of Gratitude 3

Memory Verse: …  “ Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV).

Text: Psalms 100:1-5

Spiritual Emphasis: Gratitude refers to the ability to show thanks for the things you have and the things you’re grateful for. It helps you get closer to God by recognizing all the blessings in your life and make it easier to focus on Him. As believers, our gratitude should overflow in response to the benefits we receive as children of God. In fact, a thankful heart is a defining characteristic of a godly person since it’s an expression of His indwelling presence.

      Choose Gratitude

• Gratitude as a conscious choice: Gratitude is a choice we make, not a feeling we wait for. It is a spiritual discipline and a way of life that frees us from fear and anxiety.

Paul’s life, full of hardship, serves as a powerful example of this choice. He wrote to “give thanks in all circumstances” because he believed God controlled his life – 1 Thess. 5:16-18; Phil. 4:11-13; 1 Cor. 15:57.

• Practicing Gratitude on a daily basis: In all circumstances, as a form of prayer, a way to show worship, and a foundation for a joyful life – Phil. 4:6; Ps. 100:4; Col. 3:15; Neh. 8:10.
• Give Thanks in every situation: Thanksgiving isn’t just for the “good stuff” in life we ask for. We can give thanks in all circumstances since God’s good, wise, and kind sovereignty allows whatever comes our way. God’s plan is always to “do you good in the end”. He always works all things for our good and His glory – Daniel 2:17-23; Daniel 6:10; Romans 8:28-29.

Questions/Activities: As you continue to thank God for the blessings and gifts in your life, are there lessons we can learn from Paul and Daniel on how to handled trials and challenges of life? 

Conclusion. 

There are many alternatives to a life of thanksgiving. But as believers, let’s learn to start each day with a grateful heart. A life characterized by an attitude of thankfulness is not just natural but learned (Phil. 4:9). Your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the ultimate reason to be thankful. Focus on what you have, not what is missing. May your life overflow with thankfulness, as a way of life.

Shalom! Self-Study: Matthew 5:16; Colossians 3:15; 2 Cor. 4:15; Eph. 1:16; 1 Chron. 16:34; Psalm 118:1; Psalm 136:1; 2 Thess. 1:3; Psalm 107:1; 2 Cor. 9:15; Psalm 28:7; Heb. 13:15; Psalm 100:1-5.