Gratitude - What Are You Grateful For?

Next Steps

Message Summary

Christmas is that special time of year when we reflect, give thanks, and ponder the future. It is also the time when we express our gratitude through the giving of gifts, smiles, and presents. Christmas can be summed up in one word—gratitude. Because of Jesus, our sins are forgiven, and we can have peace and real joy. Because of Jesus, we can talk to God bringing him everything in our hearts. Just as we appreciate gratitude expressed to us when we give, so too God appreciates and expects our gratitude for all He has done for us. We express gratitude to God by singing praises to Him, by speaking to Him in heartfelt prayers, and by giving 10% of the income He has graciously provided. We also express gratitude to God by serving others with a smile and by sharing our testimonies about Jesus and the eternal life He offers to all humankind.

1) What are you grateful for today?

2) Do you think God feels the same as we do when we express our gratitude to him or keep it from him? Why?

Consider This

“Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT2). The apostle Paul exhorts us in Scripture to give thanks for all things, in all circumstances. Conversely, thanklessness leads to a darkening of our hearts and a distancing from God.

1) Read Romans 1:21. In your own words, what are some results of ignoring God and refusing to thank him? Can you share some ways you’ve seen this play out in your life or the lives of others?

2) From the following verses, list circumstances in which we are expected to give thanks (speak praises & rejoice). Which are most difficult for you? Can you give thanks anyway? How?

a. James 1:1-4

b. 1 Peter 4:12-14

c. Matthew 19:29

3) According to Hebrews 12:28, why should we be so thankful?

4) Read Luke 17:12-18. What is the relationship between gratitude and faith in this passage? How does that apply to you?

5) Read Romans 3:10-18 for a refresher. Then, according to Luke 7:41-48, why is it important to come to grips with the extent of our sins against God, ourselves and other people?

6) Once we understand forgiveness and amazing grace, how should that affect our relationship with God?

7) How does gratitude figure in “whatever you do or say” in Colossians 3:17? How would you apply this principle to your life today?

Moving Forward

Gratitude is an attitude that should be expressed often. If Jesus wrote you a thank you note, what would it say?

1) Would he thank you for praising him?

2) Would he thank you for taking the time to talk to him?

3) Would he thank you for your generosity to help his cause?

4) Would he thank you for serving others in his name?

5) Would he thank you for telling others how awesome he is for saving you?

How can you change some of your answers to these questions this week?