"GIVING THANKS IS A WEAPON" Phil. 4:4

Intro: The Essence Of Thanksgiving:

Thanksgiving is more than a mere holiday; it's a spiritual discipline, a way of life, a profound expression of our faith.

Everything the devil tried did not work!!

It flows from a heart deeply touched by the grace of God. I mean you must know and reminice what God has done for you, before you get depressed, and say it’s not happening! I can’t see it. Just tell your self Wait A Minute God has been good to me!!

People wo are happy, especially those who are very happy in the Lord, are not apt either to give offense or to take offense, they generally are problem free people. Their minds are so occupied with higher things, that they are not easily distracted by the little troubles which naturally arise among such imperfect creatures as we are. Joy in the Lord is the cure for all discord.” (Spurgeon)Nothing to praise Him for how about the mercy He has shown us? Mercy- I did not get what I did deserve- Grace He gives me unmerited favor, what I could never earn on my own. 6 figures no degree, health in my body even after running the streets.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 - In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

I don't know why Jesus loved me I don't know why He cared I don't know why He sacrificed His life Oh, but I'm glad, so glad He did He left His mighty throne in glory To bring to us redemption's story Then He died but He rose again Oh, but I'm glad, so glad He did

He left His might Oh, but I'm glad, I'm glad He did. So glad He did I'm glad He did Where would I be if Jesus didn't love me? Where would I be if Jesus didn't care? Where would I be if He hadn't sacrificed His life Oh, but I'm glad, so glad He did I don't know why Jesus loved me (oh I don't know why) I don't know why He cared (oh I don't know why) I don't know why He sacrificed His life Oh, but I'm glad (so glad), so glad He did Oh, but I'm glad (so glad), so glad He did

I. Thanksgiving Has Transformative Power~

Being thsnkful will change your life.

A. Expressing gratitude shifts our focus: Marriage, Work, Church. the devil trying to show you one thing, God wants you to shift.

2. Shifting Perspective: In moments of gratitude, we move our focus away from what may be lacking or challenging in our lives and instead focus on what we have been blessed with. This shift in perspective helps us to see God's goodness even in the midst of difficulties, fostering a sense of trust and faith in His ability to work all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). Thanksgiving reminds us that God is always present and actively working in our lives, even in the midst of trials.

Psalms 107:1 - O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

1. In a world filled with distractions and challenges, gratitude redirects our attention towards the goodness of God. Keeping up with the jones, just live down here with the smith’s and be content.

2. It helps us see beyond our circumstances and recognize the countless ways God has blessed us.- Farsighted and not just near sighted. some people are too near sighted. can’t see far off.

“David encourages himself in the Lord”. King James Bible But godliness with contentment is great gain. 1 Tim 6:10 Get God you have everything. You being evil: know how to give good gifts to their children. I don’t have to be saved to give good gifts to my children. Fathers!! you don’t need a judge to malke you take care of your resposibility. i’m telling you make a honest living, and when your children is grown you can say i was there from day 1

B. Gratitude fosters contentment: or satisfaction

1. When we cultivate a heart of thankfulness, we develop a sense of contentment that transcends that goes beyond material possessions. cars, houses, clothes, money. Those old saints didn’t have nothing and were just as happy!! on the bus praising God, apartment I’ll praise Him, with a hous or without a house, and instead of cutting a deal with God, if you do this i’ll do that just love Him and serve Him.

2. We learn to appreciate what we have rather than constantly yearn for what we don't, finding joy in the simple blessings of life.

My children may not be where I want them to be. would love for them to help me in ministry. how about this people may say don’t that bother you?

No!! I’m thankful they are not on drugs strung out somewhere, i’m thankful. Peter and John went to the temple the hour of prayer with no money? man begging alms they said silver and Gold I don’t have but such as I have give it unto you. demon driving power, healing power God has something for you money can’t buy.

C. Thanksgiving unlocks spiritual blessings:

Believe it or not!!

1. Gratitude opens the doors of our hearts to experience the fullness of God's love and grace.

2. As we express our thankfulness, our relationship with God deepens, and we receive spiritual blessings such as peace, joy, and a strengthened faith.

II. Thanksgiving Is a Repository for Blessings:

God is mad with you! God don’t hear you, God is not coming to your rescue.

a place, room, or container where something is deposited or stored : depository.

A. Thanksgiving magnifies blessings:

Not self!! blessings I shoudn’t even be here.

1. When we give thanks, we acknowledge the goodness of God and magnify His blessings in our lives. Don’t act like God hasn’t done anything for you.

2. Our thankfulness amplifies the impact of the blessings we receive, making them more meaningful and impactful.

B. Gratitude cultivates a heart of abundance:

1. By acknowledging and appreciating the blessings we have, we develop a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity.

2. This mindset allows us to live generously and share our blessings with others, creating a continuous cycle of abundance and gratitude.

C. Thanksgiving strengthens our faith:

1. When we look back and remember the times God has come through for us, our faith is strengthened.

2. Thanksgiving reminds us of God's faithfulness, providing assurance and confidence in His promises.

III. Maintaining a Lifestyle of Thanksgiving:

A. Recognize and acknowledge blessings daily: Thank you for waking me up/ health and strength. pray over our food., Transportation.

1. Take time each day to reflect on and acknowledge the blessings, no matter how big or small.

2. Keep a gratitude journal to cultivate a habit of thankfulness and train your mind to focus on blessings.

3. Cultivating a Heart of Humility: Gratitude humbles us as we recognize that our blessings are not solely the result of our own efforts, but ultimately gifts from God. By acknowledging that every good thing we have is a result of His grace, we develop a heart of humility. In 1 Peter 5:6, we are encouraged to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God. When we approach Him with humility, our faith grows stronger as we surrender our reliance on our own strength and wisdom, and instead rely on His power and guidance.B. Share your gratitude with others:

1. Express your thankfulness to God in prayer and worship.

2. Share your appreciation with others, encouraging them to also cultivate a spirit of gratitude.

C. Serve others with a grateful heart:

1. As we recognize the blessings we have received, let us share them with those who are in need.

2. By serving others selflessly, we exemplify the heart of gratitude and reflect God's love for all people.

How To maintain the blessings of God:

Count your blessings regulary. Name them one by one.

Journal your blessings

Tell others~ Make His name great!!! In the earth.God will do for you because you tell.

Avoid comparisons~ Like Cain did to abel. years later they may remember somthing you said.