A Thankful Heart

Colossians 3:15 ESV

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

A Thankful Heart

Text: Colossians 3:15–17 (ESV)

Scripture Reading: Psalm 100:1–5

Introduction: The Heartbeat of Gratitude

Gratitude is one of the clearest marks of a mature believer.

Paul writes to the Colossians to remind them that thanksgiving is not occasional—it is continual.

In these verses, Paul shows us that a thankful heart is seen in our peace, our praise, and our practice.

I. The Peace of a Thankful Heart (v.15)

“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”

A. Peace as a Divine Gift

The “peace of Christ” is the calm assurance that comes from being reconciled to God.

Jesus said, “My peace I give to you; not as the world gives” (John 14:27).

This peace is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of Christ in the midst of it.

B. “Rule” — Brabeuetō (βραβευέτω)

The Greek word translated “rule” means to act as an umpire or arbiter.

Paul is saying: Let Christ’s peace call the shots in your heart.

When anger, worry, or bitterness rise up, peace must make the final decision.

A thankful heart submits to that peace, not to emotion.

C. Peace and Unity in the Body

Paul reminds us we were “called in one body.”

A thankful heart contributes to unity; an ungrateful one breeds division.

When the church allows Christ’s peace to rule, harmony follows.

Supporting Verses:

Philippians 4:6–7 — “The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding…”

Romans 12:18 — “Live peaceably with all.”

II. The Praise of a Thankful Heart (v.16)

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”

A. “Dwell” — Enoikeitō (ἐνοικείτω)

The Greek means “to make a home” or “to take up permanent residence.”

The Word of Christ shouldn’t visit occasionally—it should live in us.

A heart where the Word dwells richly will naturally overflow with gratitude.

The richer the Word’s presence, the richer our thanksgiving.

B. “Richly” — Plousiōs (πλουσίως)*

Means abundantly, overflowing, more than enough.

We are not meant to have a surface relationship with Scripture but a deep, generous one.

The more we meditate on the Word, the more it fills our thoughts, our speech, and our worship.

C. The Word Shapes Our Worship

Out of that abundance, Paul says we teach, admonish, and sing.

Singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs is not just melody—it’s ministry.

Worship becomes a teaching moment, a reminder of truth, and an act of thanksgiving.

Our songs are sermons set to music.

D. Gratitude in the Heart of Worship

“With thankfulness in your hearts to God”—the phrase points to the inner attitude that makes worship acceptable.

True worship flows from thankful hearts, not just trained voices.

Supporting Verses:

Psalm 119:11 — “I have stored up your word in my heart…”

Ephesians 5:19–20 — “Singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart… giving thanks always.”

III. The Practice of a Thankful Heart (v.17)

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

A. “Whatever You Do” — The Scope of Gratitude

Paul leaves no area untouched—speech, work, home life, service.

Gratitude is not confined to Sunday worship; it’s a daily posture of the soul.

The thankful believer doesn’t compartmentalize faith—it colors every action.

B. “In the Name of the Lord Jesus” — Onoma (ὄνομα)*

The phrase means “under His authority” or “representing His character.”

Every word and deed should carry the signature of Christ.

A thankful heart asks, “Would this honor the name of Jesus?”

C. Gratitude as a Way of Life

“Giving thanks” is in the present tense—continuous, ongoing action.

Gratitude becomes the rhythm of a life centered on grace.

When we live with a thankful heart, we transform ordinary tasks into holy acts.

Supporting Verses:

1 Thessalonians 5:18 — “Give thanks in all circumstances…”

James 1:17 — “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above…”

Conclusion: Cultivating a Thankful Heart

A thankful heart doesn’t grow accidentally—it’s nurtured by peace, filled by the Word, and expressed in daily practice.

When Christ rules, His Word dwells, and His name directs us, thanksgiving becomes natural.

Gratitude isn’t a moment—it’s a movement of the heart toward God.

Practical Applications

Start each day with thanks—before requests, begin with remembrance.

Let Scripture speak first—open the Word before the world.

Sing with sincerity—turn worship into your weekly gratitude training.

Serve in His name—see every task as ministry.

Guard your peace—when conflict or complaint rises, let Christ’s peace be the umpire.