November 29, 2015

An Attitude of Gratitude

Pastor: Jeff Bedwell Scripture: Psalm 100

An Attitude of Gratitude
Psalm 100

(To download and print blank sermon notes to complete while you listen, click HERE.)

Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday; it’s intended to be a way of life.

A Biblical Basis for Thanksgiving

1. Thanksgiving is Commanded

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

2. Thanksgiving is Commended

“Then Jesus answered, 'Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.'” (Luke 17:17–19)

3. A Warning about ingratitude

“And you shall eat and be full, and you shall bless the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. “Take care lest you forget the LORD your God by not keeping his commandments and his rules and his statutes, which I command you today,” (Deuteronomy 8:10–11)

Some Reasons for Thanksgiving

  1. God Reveals Himself to us (3a)
  2. God Made us (3b)
  3. God Cares for us (3c)
  4. God is Good (5a)
  5. God’s Love is everlasting (5b)
  6. God is Faithful forever (5c)

We Tend To See What We Are Looking For

Expressing Our Thanksgiving

1. To God (Psalm 100:4)

2. To Others

“May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, but when he arrived in Rome he searched for me earnestly and found me— may the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that Day!—and you well know all the service he rendered at Ephesus.” (2 Timothy 1:16–18)

Making It Practical

  • Take a few minutes to reflect on God’s blessings for which you are grateful. (Physical, spiritual, family, financial, church, friendships, possessions, etc.) Spend some time specifically saying “Thank You” to God for these many blessings.
  • Let’s not limit our gratitude to God. Think of some of the people who have meant so much to you along your journey. Before this week is over, take the time to express to them your appreciation in some way. It doesn’t have to be long, fancy or expensive – just sincere. Who knows it might just make their week!