GRATITUDE PT 2 - GRATITUDE: OUR RESPONSE IN EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE
Psalm 34:1
“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
GRATITUDE IN THE GOOD:
In good times we often gain clarity about God’s presence and faithfulness.
Gratitude becomes a discipline, an intentional practice that allows us to celebrate, not just the blessings themselves, but also the God who bestows them.
When we actively choose to express thankfulness during good times we are cultivating a habit that shapes our perspective.
Gratitude pulls us back to the truth that we are dependent on God for all we have.
In James 1:17, we are reminded, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights.”
GRATITUDE IN THE TRIAL:
Psalm 42:5 asks,
“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God;”
In the moments of trial, sorrow or difficulty, gratitude might seem counterintuitive, yet it is precisely in these challenging seasons that it can become a lifeline.
Cultivating an attitude of gratitude transforms our outlook.
Gratitude during difficult times reinforces our faith.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, we are instructed, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
When we adopt a heavenly perspective, we begin to recognize that God is in control and at work even in our trials.
GRATITUDE FOR GODS CONTROL:
Psalm 46:10 states,
“Be still, and know that I am God.”
In times of uncertainty gratitude serves as a vital reminder that God is ultimately in control.
Romans 8:28
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
When we reflect on times when God has guided us, even when we did not understand His methods, we build a foundation of trust that reassures us of His continual presence.
Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
TABLE TIME:
When things are going well in your life, how do you typically respond to the blessings around you? Do you take them for granted or do you respond with appropriate gratitude?
How can we intentionally cultivate a heart of gratitude when things are going well?
How does/can practicing gratitude during good/joyful times shape our perspective and deepen our faith?
Why do you think it’s easy to become self-sufficient and forget God’s role in our prosperity?
How can we guard against this attitude?
How does gratitude help us return to the truth that we are completely dependent on God for all we have?
How have you experienced moments when gratitude helped you navigate tough circumstances?
In Psalm 42:5, the psalmist asks, “Why are you cast down, O my soul?”
How can we use gratitude as a tool to lift our spirits in times of sorrow or despair?
When facing trials, it’s easy to focus on the pain.
How can we shift our perspective to recognize God’s presence and blessings even in the midst of hardship?
Reflect on and share a time when God showed you something positive in a difficult season.
How did that experience shape your view of gratitude?
Have you ever experienced a moment where someone’s expression of gratitude in a trial encouraged you?
How did that impact your own faith?
Gratitude during uncertain times helps us trust God’s plan.
How do you typically respond when you don’t understand God’s plan for your life?
How can gratitude help you lean into faith rather than fear?
PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER AT YOUR TABLE:
WHAT IS GOD SAYING?