Gratitude
the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.
THANKSGIVING
Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into the village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice.
He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him — and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”
Luke 17:11-19 NIV (New International Version)
The Gratitude Gap
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:15-17 (NIV)
But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast
love and faithfulness.
Psalm 86:15 (NIV)
The Discipline of Gratitude
1. How do I exhibit a life of gratitude in my life now?
2. How can I develop the willingness to be a more disciplined person who will realize I am grateful for His work in me?
3. What blocks gratitude from working and being exhibited in me?
4. What can I do to stay focused on gratitude even in times of uncertainly and stress?
Ingratitude draws us further from the cross and to a life that is not Spirit-led.
Ingratitude becomes a barrier to seeing the gift of grace we have received.
The Gratitude Gap
Gratitude comes from
the relationship we have with Christ.