MEMORY VERSE: “I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works.”Psalm 9:1
BIBLE PASSAGE: Psalm 107:21-22
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the year 2024, we are so grateful to God who has faithfully seen us into the new year and trust that He by His Spirit will make our spiritual journey glorious as we continue to learn at His feet in Jesus name Amen. Gratitude is fundamentally about not taking things for granted. Many believe that most things they get are their rights. They believe in their sweat, smartness, and intellect; hence, they see no reason why they should give thanks to anyone, not even to God-Almighty. This is not only wrong but a wicked and dangerous act. To be grateful is to recognise the influence and blessings of the Lord in our lives. Gratitude also means thanksgiving, thankfulness, or appreciation.
OUTLINE
1.SHOWING GRATITUDES
2. SOME BENEFITS OF SHOWING GRATITUDE
SHOWING GRATITUDE
Thanksgiving should be the first fruit of our lips. Hebrews 13:15. It should come out of a pure, broken, and contrite heart Psalms 51:16-17. Thanksgiving should not be offered grudgingly or of necessity but willingly and cheerfully. Exodus 35:5, 2 Corinthians 9:7.
Therefore, we can offer thanks to God with joyful noise Psalms 95:2, singing Psalms 13:6; Psalms 126:1-2, clapping of hands Psalms 47:1, musical instruments, and dancing Psalms 150:3-6, etc. Offering of quality substance like our time, material resources such as properties, and money are other acceptable means of showing gratitude to God Proverbs 3:9-10. We can also show gratitude with our voluntary heartfelt service in God’s CHURCH Psalms 107:22; Hebrews 6:10.
SOME BENEFITS OF SHOWING GRATITUDE
1.Our gratitude helps us glorify God as we focus on the giver and not the gifts.
2 Corinthians 4:15.
2.It helps us enjoy fully God’s presence, Psalms 95:2; 103:13-14.
3.It makes us conform to God’s will. 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
4.It brings peace, joy, and contentment Philippians 4:6-7; 1 Timothy 6:6-8.
5.It makes our testimony complete and perfect. Luke 17:17-19.
6.Our faith deepens as we praise Him for past faithfulness, this enables us to confidently face new difficulties ahead. Psalm 103:2.
It accelerates answers to all our prayers John 11:41-44
CONCLUSION
Gratitude should be part of our daily lives so that we can enjoy unending benefits.