The Grumbler’s Guide to Giving Thanks

1 Thessalonians 5:16–22 ; Ephesians 5:3–4 ; Ephesians 5:18–20

Why is being Thankful such a big deal?

2 Timothy 3:2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

Romans 1:21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful;

Ingratitude is a sign of a lost heart and a backslidden Christian.

Un-thankfulness is a sign of the pagan generation.

Why is being Thankful so difficult?

• Circumstances
• Comparisons
• Complaining
• Consumerism
• Callousness of Others
• (It is) Contrary to Our Spirit

The same voice that praises God for His provision and blessing should be the same voice that trusts God when he doesn’t have so much that it will ruin him.

1. Manner of Giving Thanks

• Not “For” Everything
• “In” Everything

2. Method of Giving Thanks

eucharisteo – often translated praise – it is done via the mouth – praise offering

• Attitude
• Action

3. Motive for Giving Thanks

Will of God

Plan of God to be

• Saved
• Sanctified
• Spirit-Controlled
• Suffering
• Saying Thanks

1. Don’t Worry, Want, or Waste, Be Thankful

2. Practice Daily the Discipline of Gratitude

3. Purpose to Pray about the things that worry You

4. Thankfulness says I trust God in my circumstances – Romans 8:28.