Intentional Gratitude (Chantilly Sermon)
November 24, 2024
Romans 1:21-22 CSB – For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools,
George Washington’s Thanksgiving Proclamation (October 3, 1789)
A Proclamation
Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor—and Whereas both Houses of Congress have by their Joint Committee requested me “to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God
Hebrews 12:28 CSB – …let us be thankful. By it, we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and awe,
Philippians 4:12-13 CSB – I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.
Romans 1:21-22 CSB – For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools,
Luke 17:17 CSB – Jesus said, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?
Where are the Other 9?
1 Thessalonians 5:18 CSB – give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
What are Your Thankfulness Thieves?
Personality?
Entitlement?
Proverbs 30:8-9 CSB –
Give me neither poverty nor wealth;
feed me with the food I need.
9 Otherwise, I might have too much
and deny you, saying, “Who is the Lord?”
Hebrews 13:5, “Be content with what you have.”
Negative Influences?
Proverbs 13:20 CSB – The one who walks with the wise will become wise, but a companion of fools will suffer harm.
1 Corinthians 15:33 CSB – Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”
Unfair Comparisons?
2 Corinthians 10:12 CSB – in measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves to themselves, they lack understanding.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 CSB – give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
How to Grow in Gratitude
Choose to be Thankful– Now
1 Thessalonians 5:18 CSB – give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Serve Others (esp. those less fortunate)
Matthew 16:25 CSB – For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of me will find it.
Discipline Yourself to Thank God Every Day
Colossians 4:2 CSB – Devote yourselves to prayer; stay alert in it with thanksgiving.
