Fostering the Attitude of Joy 2

1 Thessalonians 5:16

 
SUBJECT: Cultivating the Christian Attitude of Joy

THEME: We can foster the spiritual attitude of Joy by rejoicing in the Lord because He is the Source, Subject, and Sovereign of spiritual Joy!

INTRODUCTION: As Christians our inner life is awfully important to God and our spiritual welfare—attitudes, motives, and behaviors are equally weighty aspects of our inner and external growth in grace. Doing the right thing should stem from being the right person. You may recall, an attitude is “a settled way of thinking or feeling about someone or something, typically one that is reflected in a person's behavior.” Attitudes include our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors; all of which are to be consecrated to the glory of our Lord God. Our focus today is on the attitude of joy.

Joy is the fruit of a right relation with God. It is not something people can create by their own efforts. The Bible distinguishes joy from pleasure. The Greek word for pleasure is the word from which we get our word “hedonism,” the philosophy of self-centered pleasure seeking.”^[1]

The Apostle Paul characterized false teachers as “lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God” (2 Tim. 3:4). Let this be a warning to us all; we are to love God first and foremost. Joy will prove evasive and illusive as long as we pursue joy, but if we refocus and pursue the Lord then joy will be a benefit of our lavish communion with him. Rejoicing can become our habit…our practice…our character…our destiny.  

Joy as Action. There is a joy that Scripture commands. That joy is action that can be engaged in regardless of how the person feels. Proverbs 5:18 tells the reader to rejoice in the wife of his youth, without reference to what she may be like. Christ instructed his disciples to rejoice when they were persecuted, reviled, and slandered (Mt 5:11, 12). The apostle Paul commanded continuous rejoicing (Phil 4:4; 1 Thes 5:16). James said Christians are to reckon it all joy when they fall into various testings because such testings produce endurance (Jas 1:2). First Peter 4:13 seems to include both action and emotion…. Joy in adverse circumstances is possible only as a fruit of the Holy Spirit, who is present in every Christian (Gal 5:22).^[2]

All of this means our attitudes are a choice! We can choose to be joyful. This is further supported by the fact that God commands this behavior—rejoice. “Rejoice” is a firm authoritative command; not merely a suggestion we can take or leave. We must cultivate attitudes of Joy to ensure it marks our character. 

FOSTER AN ATTITUDE OF JOY CONTINUED….  

1Thes 5:16, Rejoice evermore. 

Recall also the Apostle Paul’s wise counsel, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” (Phil 4:4). 

Thesis: We can foster the spiritual attitude of Joy by rejoicing in the Lord because He is the Source, Subject, and Sovereign of our Joy!

          I.               Rejoicing Forevermore is Possible because of the Source, Subject, and Sovereign of Spiritual Joy! We understand the imperative and command to rejoice evermore, but here we explore further why we should. There are incredible reasons for fostering the holy attitude of joy. 

A.    First, Rejoice because Jehovah God is Our Source of Joy (Neh. 8:10-12).

                                        1.     We can rejoice always and, in all things, because the Source of our joy is a constant unchanging and all-sufficient origin.

                                        2.     Joy of the LORD—Jehovah, Yahweh—the existing One! It denotes absolute rule and authority of the Creator, Owner, and Master of the universe!

                                        3.     It is the “joy of the Lord” that strengthens us and empowers holy resilience—God-wrought buoyancy—divinely provided elasticity. We can continually rejoice because He always supplies all we need as we need it and whatever we need.

                                        4.     You can rejoice in the Lord as the infinite Source of our Joy! Joy comes from a supernatural Source—God himself and it is supernaturally sustained in our experiences. Transcendental, supernatural, spiritual and mystical are reasonable descriptions of the divine rejoicing; joy is made available through our faith and dependence upon the Lord for it. As certainly as the Lord resources our sun and a trillion billion stars in millions of galaxies He can resource you and me.

                                        5.     Nehemiah 8:10-12, Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength. [Power] 11, So the Levites stilled all the people, saying, Hold your peace, for the day is holy; neither be ye grieved. 12 And all the people went their way to eat, and to drink, and to send portions, and to make great mirth, because they had understood the words that were declared unto them. (Neh. 8:10-12)

                                        6.     We make a gross mistake when we pursue joy or when we expect joy from other sources. While there is natural joy and happiness that we experience through positive circumstances and healthy relationships. Some pursue joy primarily in human relationships—spouse, children, friends. Others look only to things to bring them joy—houses, cars, boats, ect. There are folks who expect joy in their occupations—promotions, more money and raises, new joy, bonuses, recognition ect. Yet, others hunt for joy in achievements—advanced degrees, and on the list goes. The Lord is your real Source of Joy! Look to Him!

B.    Secondly, Rejoice because Jesus Christ is our Subject of Joy (Phil. 4:8).

                                        1.     Philippians 4:8, Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Phil. 4:8)

                                        2.     Your thought life matters when it comes to cultivating a joyful character! We can perceive what is involved in rejoicing evermore by focusing on the Lord. My heart has been rescued from downcast feelings and thoughts by refocusing my thoughts on the Lord Jesus. Thinking about Him stirs joy deep within.

                                        3.     Reflecting on His compassion, mercy, and love gives rise to comfort, assurance, and security in the deepest centers of my soul. Meditating on His patience, wisdom, and courage awakens persistence, confidence, and peace in my heart—again I am helped!

                                        4.     Beloved, concentrate your thoughts on Calvary, the empty tomb, your resurrected Savior, the ascended Christ, the enthroned and powerful Lord, our all-glorious Advocate, our compassionate High Priest, and the coming King of kings and Lord of lords!

                                        5.     Remember Jesus saved you, forgave you, brought you into the family of God and gave you his blessed Holy Spirit. Heaven and forever with the Lord is your eternal reality. Beloved, shout for joy! Let it rise from the depth of your ever-deepening conviction that you have many reasons to rejoice in the Lord. O’ the impact of Christ on our inner life is reason to rejoice evermore! (Phil. 1:4, 18; 2:16-18; 3:3; 4:4, 10; 1 Peter 1:5-8; 1 John 1:1-4)

                                        6.     If you merely ruminate on what’s wrong, bad, evil, sinful, awful, or negative then you will naturally be down cast and mitigate the joy you seek to build in your life!

C.    Thirdly, Rejoice because Father-God is Our Sovereign of Joy (Acts 16:19-35).

                                        1.     JOY is an acrostic for Jehovah over You! He is wonderfully in control of our circumstances! The command to “Rejoice evermore” (1Thess. 5:16) certainly rises out of a firmly fixed conviction that God is in complete control of our circumstances and challenges! His plan concerning you and me is good! We really believe that…come what may. No one else and nothing else occupies the throne of the entire universe! God alone rules forever on high over all; He is supremely in control. If he rules over all, then that includes you and me. If he exercises control over all, then we must accept his control over us. For me, this is reason to rejoice!

                                        2.     Accordingly, in Acts 16:19-35, Paul and Silas were simply obeying God and preaching the Gospel of Christ in Philippi. People were being saved and lives were changing, but this brought false accusations, physical persecution, public humiliating beatings, condemnation without a fair trial, and imprisonment in a dank jail. Rather than being bitter, lapsing into depression, or plotting an escape, these servants of Christ demonstrated confidence in God’s great plan for them. Instead of weeping, cussing, complaining, or protesting they rejoiced and sang praises to God! This was a powerful testimony to the on-watching prisoners. You see, this is the power of joy in action—strengthening and sustaining faithful servants to continue in the work of the Lord Jesus. In fact, God started the church at Philippi with the converts from this development.

                                        3.     Our role is to trust this truth and be glad in the Lord God. Notice how David agrees with Paul saying, “Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart” (Ps 32:11). Why not join David and shout for joy? Why??? You and I are not subject to chance, lucky stars, fate, or horoscopes. God is managing our affairs with love, grace, wisdom, power, and this is far more meaningful than impersonal forces randomly impacting our lives!

                                        4.     Since your confidence and trust is indeed in the Lord “rejoice” and “shout for joy”! "But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee." (Ps 5:11) Express your love for the Lord Jesus by rejoicing in Him. Envelop yourself in His defense strategies first and foremost; rejoice in the impeccable security Jehovah affords. Once again, the Apostle Paul said it perfectly, "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice." (Phil 4:4). There is NO need to fret or fear—trust Him implicitly.

                                        5.     When we keep our minds and hearts upon the truth that Christ controls our circumstances, then we can’t help but rejoice. With the Lord on the throne, everything will ultimately be alright. He does all things well; He rules with wisdom, power, and love. He is our Sovereign, Source and Subject of Joy; therefore, keep rejoicing as you go! (Acts 16:19-35)

                                        6.     If you find it difficult to give God control of your entire life, it may be you do not trust His sovereign wisdom, power, or love! On the other side of full surrender is victory and joy unspeakable and full of glory! (1Pet. 1:5-9)

II.            Rejoicing Always and in All Conditions Must be Fostered…How May We Foster Joy? While we fully acknowledge joy cannot be produce through mere human manipulations, there our spiritual activities that God uses to produce joyful experiences. So, again what are some ways we may experience joy?

A.    By Communing with God through Christ (1John 1:4)

B.    By Abiding (staying) in Jesus Christ to be Fruitful (John 15:11)

C.    By Depending on the Spirit for his gracious life-changing Fruit (Gal. 5:22-23)

D.    By Reaping a Harvest of Converts through sharing the Gospel (Phil. 2:15-18)

E.    By Rejoicing in the Lord Habitually and Intentionally (Phil. 4:4)

F.     By Renewing the Mind with Scripture (Rom. 12:1-2; Phil. 4:8)

CONCLUSION:

We can foster the spiritual attitude of Joy by rejoicing in the Lord because He is the Source, Subject, and Sovereign of spiritual Joy!

Holy Joy can be the continual experience of Christians, even in the most contrary conditions. Beloved, this is because our great God is the source, subject and sovereign of our joy! Therefore, we can deliberately “rejoice evermore.” In doing so we foster the attitude of joy. Remember, Christ is fully in control of our circumstances.

Even from the world of science and psychology, joy and happiness have been linked to good health:

            1.  Promotes a healthier lifestyle

2. Protects your heart
3. Combats disease and disability
4. Boosts/strengthens your immune system
5. Fights stress and supports fewer aches and pains
6. Promotes longevity—lengthens our lives

Truly, “a merry heart doeth good like a medicine” (Prov. 17:22; see also Prov. 15:13). The science world is only beginning to realize the physical and temporal benefits of joy and happiness. For thousands of years the Scriptures have informed us of these along with the far reaching spiritual benefits of a joyful life in Christ. Let us explore the wonders of intimate communion with the Lord; one incredible result is fullness of joy (1John 1:1-4). In obedience to God’s command, let us “rejoice evermore” in the Lord!

Finally, as joy-filled believers, we will make a positive impact for the glory of God. It is easy to conceive how more people would come to Christ if we were characterized by real joy (Jn. 15:11; 10:10). Christ wills that His people not only have life, but that we have it more abundantly! Joy should not only create a curiosity, but also a hunger in hearts for the Lord. Christianity should be marked by saltiness while providing light to all (Matt. 5:13-16). Joy is solid evidence of Christianity’s distinctive testimony. Remember the words of the Savior, “Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:20).

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^[1] Dean, R. J. (2003). Joy. In C. Brand, C. Draper, A. England, S. Bond, E. R. Clendenen, & T. C. Butler (Eds.), Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary (pp. 956–957). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers.

^[2] Elwell, W. A., & Beitzel, B. J. (1988). Joy. In Baker encyclopedia of the Bible (Vol. 2, p. 1225). Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House.

Fostering the Attitude of Joy

1 Thessalonians 5:16

 

SUBJECT: Cultivating the Christian Attitude of Joy

THEME: Joy can be the constant experience of the Christian, even in the most adverse circumstances, because Christ is the source and subject of our joy, and Christ is in control of the circumstances. (W. MacDonald)

INTRODUCTION: As Christians our attitudes, motives, and behaviors are vitally important to God. The most important are our attitudes toward God as we anticipate our Lord’s return. Technically, an attitude is “a settled way of thinking or feeling about someone or something, typically one that is reflected in a person's behavior.” Attitude has also been defined as “the position or posture assumed by the body in connection with an action, feeling, mood, etc.” Basically, our attitude towards something is the way we think and feel about it, especially when this shows in the way we behave. So, what do you think of the Lord? How do you feel towards him? 

The shocking part is the fact that our behavior reflects our attitudes toward the Lord! Is there a need to focus on our thoughts, beliefs, values, and feelings--you know...deep inner change? Positive changes start with solid applications of biblical truth to our beliefs, attitudes with the result of behavior changes. As Believers we need to be changed and transformed by the Word and Grace of God from the inside out. In addition, our attitudes can be stimulated and refocused on holy character! 

The reality that Christ is coming encourages us to cultivate healthy attitudes and behaviors! If we Christians really believe Christ is coming for us in the Rapture, it will radically change our attitudes and lifestyle. Certainly this is the case with Christians anticipating our Lord’s return. His coming should have a stimulating impact on our attitudes and behavior!

WHAT SHOULD BE OUR ATTITUDES TOWARD OUR HEAVENLY FATHER? What attitudes should we desire and cultivate? (1 Thess. 5:16-18)

I feel more impressed with these attitudes because they focus on the Father of Glory! The first three attitudes that follow seem to relate particularly to the Lord God, our Heavenly Father. The attitudes are joy, trust (prayer), and gratitude and all three relate directly to our relationship with God. Our joy is in Him and from Him. Our prayers are directed to Him as our Provider, and we offer our sincerest and most heartfelt thanks to God!

All of this means our attitudes are a choice! We can choose to be joyful, trusting, and thankful. This is further supported by the fact that God commands these attitudes and behaviors. Each one of these are firm authoritative commands; they are not merely suggestions we can take or leave. We must cultivate the attitudes of Joy, Trust, and Gratitude to ensure they mark our character. 

FOSTER AN ATTITUDE OF JOY  

1Thes 5:16, Rejoice evermore. 

Thesis: We can foster the spiritual attitude of Joy by rejoicing in the Lord!

Rejoicing always and in all conditions is intentionally developing the character and attitude of spiritual joy!

A.    What Does “Rejoice” Mean?

1.     Rejoice” refers to a positive human condition that can be either a feeling or action. Rejoice means to enjoy a state of happiness and well-being. As an action, rejoicing entails expressing gladness.

2.     Joy is a deep and persisting inner gladness that was promised to believers who abide in Christ by the Lord Himself (John 15:11). Jesus said, “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” It grows in the heart that is in trusting communion with God.

3.     In addition, joy is a profound sense of well-being that is not dependent upon positive circumstances, but is rooted in that fellowship with God through Jesus Christ (1Jn. 1:4). Joy is a deep-seated acceptance of God’s rule and will, and yes, a full confidence in the plan of the Lord.

4.     Believers are instructed and even commanded in the Word to “rejoice in the Lord” (Phil. 3:1), we are further encouraged to proceed "rejoicing in hope" (Rom. 12:12), and "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice" (Phil. 4:4). Repeatedly, the Lord prescribes the development of an attitude of joy through practicing joyful expressions. God's people should be distinguished by this incredible quality of joyfulness. Clearly, this will look different in each life influenced by our temperament and personality. Never-the-less, we all should be marked by joyful expressions and forms of exuberance authentic to our unique temperament.

B.     What Is “Evermore” Referring To?

1.     God impresses you and me to rejoice “evermore.” It means to show joy always, at all times, and on all occasions. For the duration of time and with reference to a series of occasions, God calls upon us to rejoice. Joyfulness should be the character of every believer! 

2.     Joy is a choice! Spiritual joy is a conscious decision to rejoice and be joyful in spite of difficulties and challenges. Col 1:24-26, Who now rejoice [to enjoy a state of happiness and well-being] in my sufferings [the state or experience of suffering pain or distress] for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions [trouble, persecution, pain, calamity, distress] of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church: ²⁵ Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; ²⁶ Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:

3.     Joy can be the constant experience of the Believer, even in the most adverse circumstances. In fact, spiritual joy supplies power to absorb the impact of suffering for Christ’s sake. While this is not true of mere happiness it is certainly true of spiritual joy.

a.      Col. 1:11, Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

b.     Matt. 5:11-12, Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. ¹² Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

c.      Acts 5:40-42, And to him [Gamaliel, a doctor of the Law—Paul’s teacher] they agreed: and when they [Sanhedrin Council with the High Priest] had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. ⁴¹ And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing [expressing actions of rejoicing, jubilation, and exuberance] that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. ⁴² And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.          

4.     Certainly, there will be times to weep, times of sadness, and periods of dark feelings, but the overall character of the believer should be joyfulness. In the next article I will give three more reasons why we can keep on rejoicing regardless! 

CONCLUSION:

Principal Rainy (Tan 1979, p. 2821) was so well known for being happy, that a child once commented that she believed he went to Heaven every night because he was so happy every day. He once described Christian’s joy with this metaphor, “Joy,” he said, “is the flag which is flown from the castle of the heart when the King is in residence there.”

Does the Lord Jesus rule and reign over you? Oh, that Christ reigned in every heart! Joy is contentment and satisfaction with God and with all His dealings as He works life together for our good (Phil. 4:11). We may not always “see the good” that God is working in our life at the moment; but we can take Him at His word knowing that He is working it together (Ps. 4:7; 37:5).

Finally, joy involves “looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our Faith.” Christ possessed joy in Hebrews 1:9; 12:2 as He looked beyond the suffering to the glory. Joy enabled Him to endure the cross. Evidently, the “joy of the Lord” (Neh. 8:10) is our spiritual strength, power, and resilience. The more joy resides in and fills our souls the more vigor we have to endure the challenging and painful periods of life. Joy affords us spiritual stamina and strong hearts to keep on going in God’s plans. Rejoice evermore! 

Fostering the Attitude of Gratitude 2!

1 Thessalonians 5:18

 
SUBJECT: Cultivating the Christian Attitude of Thankfulness

THEME: foster the spiritual attitude of Gratitude by giving thanks to the Lord and expressing appreciation for those who service our well-being. 

INTRODUCTION:

Thankfulness, appreciation and gratitude must characterize the thoughts, feelings, and actions of Christians. Our thanksgiving should be directed towards the Lord first, and then expressed to those who assist or aid us. We can even be thankful in adverse situations because we are confident that God is powerful and wise enough to produce positive spiritual outcomes though there is nothing about our circumstances to warrants this (Rom 8:28, 29).

In addition, when we concentrate chiefly on the evil, exasperating, and fearful state of affairs, we can become imbalance in our thoughts. Giving too much attention to the adversity and losing sight of the positives. In this state of mind, we will begin to feel like nothing is going well or right. Our thoughts can become almost entirely negative and down cast spiraling downward into discouragement and losing hope. However, when we intentionally reflect on God and His goodness—when we deliberately fill our thoughts with such content; it will restore the balance. We will become more conscious of who our hope truly is and that which is going well also. Such calculated thanks and reflections will counterbalance and counteract the harmful ruminations and shorten cycles of discouragement. This is the power of a thankful heart!

As a review we said an attitude is “a settled way of thinking or feeling about someone or something, typically one that is reflected in a person's behavior.” There are three attitudes toward our heavenly Father in this passage; the attitudes are joy, trust (prayer), and thanks (1 Thess. 5:16-18). Concerning gratitude we said previously,

I.                 Gratitude is Giving God Thanks and Praise. The Requirement is to Offer Appreciation to God—to “give thanks”

II.               Gratitude should be expressed in all Circumstances. The Situation is always Appropriate to being Thankful to God—“in every thing”

III.             Gratitude is God’s Plan for His Children. The Reasoning is God Prescribes Gratitude for all Believers—“for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus”

Now, let’s explore further the attitude of gratitude with special emphasis on practicing thankfulness.

FOSTER AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE!  

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

Thesis: We can foster the spiritual attitude of Gratitude by giving thanks to the Lord!

I.               Gratitude Profoundly Enriches our Christian Experiences. The Benefits are for Believers Individually and Corporately—“concerning you”

A.    Thankful Believers have a Fuller view of God’s Person, Character, Blessings and a Greater Awareness of His Involvement (Attention, Administrations, and Activities)

                                                  1.     The phrase “concerning you” denotes the persons being addressed; those who are required to give thanks as well as who benefits from practicing thankfulness. The guidance is towards you, for you, with regards to you. That is, with regards to or for individual believers and entire congregations, great benefit can be obtained through these practices. God wills for his people to experience the profits of joy, trust, and thankfulness! He prescribed these practices and attitudes with our well-being in mind—they are for us and our good. Our Lord is not against us, but altogether for us (Rom. 8:31).

                                                  2.     We know we have his attention—the Lord never forsakes us for even a single moment; we always have his precious attention to help and aid us in all our challenges (Heb. 4:16; 13:5-6).

                                                  3.     We understand that we always have his wise administrations—our Great God never ceases to pursue what is spiritually healthy and holy for his children (Phil. 2:13; Rom. 8:32).

                                                  4.     We are confident that our Father acts on our behalf—that is, he purposefully moves with our best interests at heart (Psalm 23).

                                                  5.     The more we offer thanks for God’s attention, administrations, and activities, the more his glory and blessings will fill our minds and inform our perspective! The more we explore the character and nature of the Almighty the more content we will have for reflection and praise.  

B.    Thankful Believers are more Hopeful and Happier People.

                                                  1.     This is due to the fact we actually pause and thank the Lord for how He has worked, is working, and will work in our lives. To appreciate the care and attention God gives us even when we are not as aware of His care is quite profitable as it sustains awareness and hope deep within. Such exercise of thankfulness cultivates hope, cheers the heart, motivates praise, and brings our thoughts into a proper balance. Reflecting on past but recent blessings and numerating them perhaps on a note pad or in a journal creates legitimate hopes and anticipations of good outcomes. After all, the Lord came through before, and He is well able to do it again.

                                                  2.     So, real hope rooted in reflections on recent past experiences with the Lord springs up in the soul transforming us into people marked by this excellent quality. This translates to a happier person…a more hope filled prospect of the future. Just contrast this with too many individuals who are so filled with fear, anxiety, and discouragement they don’t even realize the Lord is actively orchestrating for them. Chances are they are looking for something or someone else to help them escape, forget, or become numb to life.

                                                  3.     Practicing thankfulness to God and others is key. We could also read Scriptures where God gave His people hope and positive anticipations to inspire hope in us. Biographies of Christian giants who had real struggles, but overcame them in Christ can also be a great source of growing hope in our hearts and personalities.

C.    Thankful Believers Genuinely Appreciate and Express Appreciation to Others; this strengthens and sustains healthy relationships

                                                  1.     Ephesians 1:15-16, Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, ¹⁶ Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers^[1]

                                                  2.     Philippians 1:3-4, I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, ⁴ Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy^[2]

                                                  3.     Paul not only appreciates these believers, but their love toward him moved him to thank God! Wouldn’t you like to be responsible for provoking others to give thanks to God! (See also 2Thess 1:3)

                                                  4.     Paul also let these believers know that they are among the blessings he thanked God for as he prays. They were informed…made aware of their contributions to the apostle!

D.    Thankful Believers are humble and easier to work with because they value the contributions of others. They get the fact that they do not know it all, and the input of others is often critically valuable. So, they seek it out and truly treasure honest constructive feedback. Thankfulness can help us overcome our self-centeredness and pride to forge teams with the potential of transforming ministries and entire industries.

E.     Thankful Believers are Magnetic and Attractive. Now think about. A thankful believer is appreciative, filled with hope, their outlook is positive, fearless, they exude joy working very well with others, they inspire and empower the people around them with their potent personal faith, and God’s glory fills their minds and hearts…. Why wouldn’t such believers be extremely attractive! Truly…regardless of their body type, the fairness of their countenance, or other desirable qualities they may or may not possess…. Deeply grateful people draw us to themselves and the closer we get to them the more we see Christ.   

II.            Gratitude can be Develop through Reflection and Practicing Thankfulness. The Attitude of Gratitude must be Deliberately Fostered! But how?

A.    Cultivating Gratitude can be Learn from Scriptures Expressing Thanks and Praise to our Great Lord God! Consider these passages as points of meditation:

                                                  1.     Romans 11:33-36

                                                  2.     Colossians 1:15-20

                                                  3.     Exodus 34:1-17

                                                  4.     Psalm 139:1-24

                                                  5.     Revelation 4:6-11; 5:5-14

                                                  6.     These are but a sample; there are many other such praise and thanksgiving passages that we can instruct us in the matter of thanksgiving and praise to our great God. Just by reviewing them briefly I felt my own spirit lifted and strengthened in the Lord God. Meditating and reflecting on such passages train us to love, appreciate and celebrate our awesome God! Memorizing and reciting portions of these praises to God in prayer, but as from our own hearts to his is an excellent way to lodge these truths and worthy thoughts into our minds. Thus we would be training ourselves in what to notice about God, what to value about him, what should be celebrated about his activities, what is excellent about his character, what is noteworthy about his behaviors. Such knowledge fuels our relationship and interactions with the Most High! Thankfulness grows in this context!

B.    Expressing Gratitude to God and Others Stems from Reflection and Looking purposefully for the Good—Evidence of God’s attention, administrations, and activities.

                                                  1.     Yes, this is moving beyond general expressions of thanksgiving like, “Thank you God for our family and health and for waking us up this morning.” These things are good, but what is far better is to become mindful of what God is doing in the details of life throughout each day.

                                                  2.     While anyone can adopt a ritual of repetitively “giving thanks;” God is prescribing the development of an attitude that regards carefully and thoughtfully what good He is achieving in our personal world and society at large.  

                                                  3.     Practicing this helped me to realize just how much I overlook, undervalue and take for granted the goodness of God to me, my family, our ministry, extended family, church family, my country, and on the list goes. Beloved, it is scandalous how often I have dismissed what God did for me directly and through others. 

                                                  4.     It takes reflection…literally pausing to think about the attention, administrations, and activities of God towards me. Taking the time to look for reasons to be thankful—to literally count my blessings. Again some things come to mind immediately, but we want to look closer, harder, and deeper to ensure we do not miss the work of God in us and for us. Focus particularly on the last 48 hours or so. You will be surprised to discover how truly good God has been, and it will change the climate in your soul as you deliberately reflect.

                                                  5.     The same can be said for our relationships. If we reflect on people’s contributions into our well-being gratitude towards God and them will grow in us. Then we must take the initiative to express our appreciation to those individuals for helping and blessings us. So, correctly understood noticing these multiple benefits from God and through others prompts me to thank God and those individuals for how they have positively touched my life. A card, a phone call, a text message, or an email can very specifically convey what we appreciate to them.

C.    Understanding that any Benefits I Receive Costs Someone—they Sustained and Expense to meet my Need—this Engenders Gratitude in my Heart (See Phil. 4:10-19).

                                                  1.     The Lord Jesus provides an excellent example of one who incurred a tremendous cost to purchase our redemption. Because we know our salvation cost the Lord Jesus so greatly, we are more appreciative of his incredible sacrifice for our sins and on our behalf. The more we know about and understand the fantastic price He paid willingly to save us, the more gratitude towards God and the Lord Jesus takes root and grows in our hearts. Christ suffered greatly for my sins; he paid an extraordinary price for me. I am so thankful for my precious Lord Jesus Christ! Glory, honor and praise unto him forever and ever!

                                                  2.     The same is true concerning the price others pay to be of benefit or service to us. They almost always incur a cost and sometimes a sacrifice. The cost may be time, money, opportunities, health, or station; but certainly a price is paid or exacted. How thankful we should be to parents, pastors, teachers, and yes, the waiter or waitress who serve our food at a restaurant. How many parents placed their healthy dreams on the shelf in order to help their children get through college? Who can number the pastors who manage 60 to 80 hour weeks praying, studying, teaching, preaching, counseling, caring, leading, and planning? How many medical professionals risk their well-being and lives to nurse and heal those suffering from COVID-19! I am grateful to our service men and women and their families; they have sacrificed themselves and placed their lives at risk repeatedly to preserve our freedoms and the future of our country. I am thankful for them!

                                                  3.     Thankfulness recognizes that others incurred a cost for me—they sustained an expense to aid or help me. This not only encourages me, but I understand how love has been shown to me. I must accept such love and appreciate the person(s) who willingly pay whatever price to meet my needs or improve the quality of my experiences. Saying, “thank you” is not enough…becoming a person of deep gratitude is!

D.    Realizing I Need the Input, Wisdom, Help and Service of Others Engenders Gratitude towards God and them. Such expressions of genuine gratitude will promote humility in our lives. Thanksgiving is an acknowledgment that “I” stand in need and someone met that need.  It is the realization that “I” am not self-sufficient nor independent of God and those He uses to meet my needs. Thankfulness is a sure cure for the disease of pride!

E.     Developing a Habit of Reflecting and Documenting God’s Blessings, Provisions, Answers to Prayer, Protections, and Guidance in a Journal will Cultivate Gratitude.

                                                  1.     Beloved, to note or jot down how God is strengthening, supporting, providing for, encouraging, protecting, teaching, renewing, correcting, empowering, building, edifying, polishing, advancing, rebuking, redirecting, enlarging, humbling, stretching and refining us is a great reason to be thankful! Capture these divine visitations and administrations in writing! Document these several times during the week. Answer the following questions…What am I thankful for? Why is this important to me? Who contributed to this blessing? How should I express thanks to them?

                                                  2.     Do not overlook what God is up to in you because you allow yourself to think primarily on the frustrating and stressful elements of your day or life in general. We must never take all the ‘goodnesses’ of God towards us for granted; thank Him often for what He is doing in you, through you, and with you. Prayers devoted to praising and thanksgiving can become a healthy regular practice enabling us to appreciate the Lord for specific investments he is making in our lives. Again, deliberately focus on the recent and even items that differ from previous reflections. Yes, this may be challenging at times; do not shy away because this requires some effort. I assure you it is worth the energy invested.

                                                  3.     We truly are wonderfully privileged to share life with the Most High. God will use this record to encourage you and assure you of His activities in your life during those times when the blessings are not as obvious.

CONCLUSION:

Foster the spiritual attitude of Gratitude by giving thanks to the Lord and expressing appreciation for those who service our well-being. 

Remember thankfulness, appreciation and gratitude MUST characterize the thoughts, feelings, and actions of Christians. This means it really is a part our character…thankfulness is who we are—it’s a settled attitude. Our thanksgiving is intentionally directed towards the Lord first and foremost, and then we pause our busy lives to express appreciation to those who assist or aid us. It does not matter how great or how small their contributions are…the fact that they did is worthy of thanks. We can even be thankful in adverse situations because we know God is powerful and wise enough to produce positive spiritual outcomes though there is nothing about our circumstances to warrants this (Rom 8:28, 29).

As the recipient of such thoughtfulness it is appropriate to send a ‘thank you card’ or email or note. It is advisable to make a call to simply express our gratitude. Journal and record the goodness of God in your experience. Don’t overlook his involvements in your journey! We must resist the entitlement mentality and tell others we genuinely appreciate them and what they do to bless and enrich our lives.

We will be significantly transformed if we took these basic instructions seriously making them an integral part of our daily walk. Every Christian should be distinguished by gratitude. Depression, anxiety, and ingratitude cannot remain in such hearts! While life slaps us with many serious challenges, we can still choose to be appreciative. Make the decision to live out gratitude.

In fact, thankful believers would be contagious as we positively influence others for Christ. When this precious quality refines our character, we are deeply attractive people. Who can resist such exuberant joy, confident prayerfulness, and rich gratitude! Beloved, these traits showcase God’s attention, administrations, and activities! We honor Him. We become living commercials of God’s grace commending Him to everyone we touch. I truly believe more people would be drawn to Christ as Savior through our lifestyles of appreciation. We will have more chances to present the gospel when the glory of godly character shines through us and into the lives of the unsaved.  

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^[1] The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., Eph 1:15–16). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.

^[2] The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., Php 1:3–4). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.