Why should we give thanks?

1) Thanksgiving is the gateway to God’s presence!

Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! —Psalm 95:2
Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! —Psalm 100:4

2) Thanksgiving is the antidote to anxiousness!

…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. —Philippians 4:6

3) Thanksgiving fuels life-change!

But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. —Ephesians 5:3-4

4) Thanksgiving magnifies God!

I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving. —Psalm 69:30

How do we give thanks?

1) We choose it.

…give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. —1 Thessalonians 5:18

2) We anchor ourselves in God’s love.

Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! —1 Chronicles 16:34

3) We make the necessary sacrifices.

I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the LORD. —Psalm 116:17

4) We count our blessings.

…giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ…

Pastor’s Challenge: Choose thankfulness in the area of your life it is hardest to have this week.