THE HEART OF THANKSGIVING

Text: Psalm 100:4-5 (KJV)

“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.”

Definition:

1. Thanksgiving: The act of expressing gratitude and appreciation to God for His blessings, provisions, and faithfulness.

2. Heart of Thanksgiving: A sincere and humble attitude of gratitude that flows from a deep understanding of God’s love, mercy, and sovereignty.

Introduction:

In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, cultivating a heart of thanksgiving is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being. Thanksgiving shifts our focus from our problems to God’s provisions, from our struggles to His strength. Today, we’ll explore the heart of thanksgiving, and how it can transform our lives.

Things to note about thanksgiving:

1. Thanksgiving acknowledges God’s sovereignty

“Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.” – Psalm 112:1 (KJV)

2. Thanksgiving recognizes God’s goodness

“O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” – Psalm 107:1 (KJV)

3. Thanksgiving expresses gratitude for salvation

“Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” – 2 Corinthians 9:15 (KJV)

4. Thanksgiving strengthens faith

“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” – Colossians 3:15 (KJV)

5. Thanksgiving promotes humility

“Let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” – Hebrews 13:15 (KJV)

6. Thanksgiving fosters contentment

“Be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” – Hebrews 13:5 (KJV)

7. Thanksgiving brings joy

“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.” – Psalm 100:4 (KJV)

Conclusion:

A heart of thanksgiving transforms our perspective, strengthens our faith, and brings joy to our lives. May we cultivate this attitude, recognizing God’s sovereignty, goodness, and mercy. Let us enter His gates with thanksgiving and praise.

5 Prayer Points:

1. Lord, help me cultivate a heart of thanksgiving.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” – Psalm 51:10 (KJV)

2. God, I thank You for Your unspeakable gift:

“Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” – 2 Corinthians 9:15 (KJV)

3. Help me recognize Your goodness in my life:

“O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” – Psalm 107:1 (KJV)

4. Grant me humility and gratitude:

“Let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” – Hebrews 13:15 (KJV)

5. Fill me with joy and contentment.

“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.” – Psalm 100:4 (KJV)

Rev. Dr. A.A Obe