Death and life are in the power of the tongue. —Proverbs 18:21
Proverbs 11:7; 15:4; 16:24; 18:4,20
Enter His gates with thanksgiving…give thanks to Him… —Psalm 100:4
…always giving thanks to God the Father for everything… —Ephesians 5:20
Thanksgiving – A way of life expressed in words from a God-centered mindset
You’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious, the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. —Philippians 4:8
Do all things without complaining and arguing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world… —Philippians 2:14,15
COMPLAINING
Based on a feeling that I deserve to be treated better
Emphasizes what I don’t have more than what I do have
Based on idealism about how good my life and my relationships should be all the time
Expresses accusations against God and others
Rejoice in the Lord always. Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God: and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. —Philippians 4:4-7
GRATITUDE
Liberates, brings peace
Energizes heart, spiritual life, relationships
Releases God’s presence in my life
Agrees with God’s leadership in every area of my life
Read the story of Mary & Martha in Luke 10.
See what God sees.
Read the Bible.
Talk to God.
Discussion Questions
1. Would the people who live nearest to you characterize you as a complaining person or a thankful person?
2. Describe some ways you plan to cultivate gratitude in your everyday life.
3. This week, take time to express your gratitude to someone. Tell them in person, email, text, write a note or call.
Thank You, God, For…
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.