Attitude of Gratitude

Philemon 4–7 “I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints, and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ. For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.”

I. Remembering the actions of others can often produce gratitude.

Proverbs 15:1 “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

II. Conveying gratitude can lead to a motivated mission.

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.”

III. Receiving gratitude can lead to joy and comfort

300 Illustrations for Preachers Thankfulness Is Good for You

Preaching Themes: Thankfulness, Holidays_Thanksgiving

Perhaps one reason it is God’s will for us to be thankful is that it is good for us.

A 2009 study again showed that being thankful can improve your life. At the University of California, Davis, professor Robert Emmons said, “Those who offer gratitude are less envious and resentful. They sleep longer, exercise more and report a drop in blood pressure.” Emmons is the author of the book Thanks! How Practicing Gratitude Can Make You Happier, and an earlier book that describes gratitude as a “new science.” Brenda Shoshanna is a New York psychologist who agrees. “You can’t be depressed and grateful at the same time,” said Shoshanna, the author of 365 Ways to Give Thanks: One for Every Day of the Year. “It makes a person physically, mentally, in every way healthier.”

—Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

Like Daniel, may we offer gratitude to God no matter what we face.

Like Jonah, may we offer gratitude to God for hard consequences that bring good repentance.

Like Hannah, may we offer gratitude to God for who He is over what He gives.

Like Paul, may we offer gratitude to God, not after, but in the midst of the storm.

Like Jesus, may we offer gratitude to God before He supplies our need.

Like Christ, may we offer gratitude to God even when following His will means suffering.