Possessing a Thankful Heart

“in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”
1 Thessalonians 5:18, NAS

When thankfulness lifts us out of despair: Jonah; Jonah 2:7,9,10

• Thankfulness brings an honest acknowledgement of where we are. “When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, Lord, and my prayer rose to you”
• Thankfulness confirms that our hope is in God. “Salvation comes from the Lord.”
• Thankfulness reflects a genuine change of attitude. “I, with a song of thanksgiving, will sacrifice to you”

When Grumbling Replaces Thanksgiving: Israel’s Journey to the Promised Land

• Grumblers allow their fear to overtake their faith. Exodus 15:22-24
• Grumblers experience memory loss.  Exodus 16:2,3
• Grumblers doubt God’s goodness. Numbers 14:1-4
• Grumblers miss God’s blessing. Numbers 14:20-23; Habakkuk 3:17-19

When Responding to Suffering with Thankfulness: Paul and Silas in Jail

• Exchange the pain for Thanksgiving.  Acts 16:22-25
• Exchange the chains for Thanksgiving. Acts 16:26,27
• Exchange the darkness for Thanksgiving. Acts 16: 29-31