An Attitude of Gratitude

November 27, 2015

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

The reason. Because God is worthy of praise, we can daily acknowledge that something wonderful has been done in our lives! We have not one, but 365 days of thanksgiving.

Habit of thankfulness. The flesh is inclined to look at whatever is negative. Discipline yourself to look at what is praiseworthy. When you feel like complaining, thank God for whatever you can possibly thank Him for. As contagious as murmuring is, a thankful and grateful heart is also contagious!

Attitude adjustment. Paul, while in the middle of a terrible situation in prison, wrote the letter to the Philippians, where eight times he said to rejoice. “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). God has called each of us to have an attitude of perseverance, of expectation—an attitude that crucifies selfishness. As you submit your heart, God will reveal areas where you need an attitude adjustment.

No Fear. God’s peace surpasses anything you can find in the world. We conquer our worries and cares by casting them on the Lord. When you encounter overwhelming circumstances, instead of losing heart, take it to God and pray (Luke 18:1).

Keep pressing on. While the world is anxiously looking for answers, you carry the truth. Now is not the time to waver. It’s time to be intent on one purpose, with hearts and minds in one accord with the Master’s work.

Sing praises to God. It’s good to be alive today. If you are feeling bottomed out, depressed, or anxious, God wants to restore joy to you. He wants to get you out of breakdown into a place of breakthrough. Take some time to sing praises to God. Even if you feel like you can barely open your lips, tell God how much you love Him. Remind yourself how great He is.

God bless you!
Pastor Jeff

thank·ful, adj.
Conscious of benefit received. Expressive of thanks. Well pleased.

Copyright © 2015 St. Louis Family Church. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reprinted or distributed in any form without prior written permission of St. Louis Family Church. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references are from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. “Thankful.” Merriam-Webster.com. Merriam-Webster, n.d. 20 Nov 2015.