Feb. 11, 2024

Sermon starts at  19:35 min. in video.  The Music "Blessed Be Your Name", "Great is Thy Faithfulness", "Gracefully Broken", "Gratitude", "Goodness of God", "I Love You Lord", and "Behold What Manner of Love the Father has Given Unto Us" are Licensed under CCLI Copyright #2723035 and Streaming Media #22024223 Licenses. Summary: The main theme of Pastor Dave’s sermon is the importance of being thankful in all circumstances as Christ followers, highlighting the connection between gratitude and a focus on God's grace. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating an attitude of gratitude as a Christ follower, recognizing the role of thanksgiving in honoring God and experiencing His grace in all aspects of life. Key points: 1. Pastor Dave discusses three "always" verses: rejoicing always, praying always, and giving thanks in everything. These verses are seen as commandments rather than suggestions, emphasizing the need for Christians to follow them in order to please the Lord. 2. The challenges in being thankful are explored, such as losing joy during difficult times, lacking prayer due to self-reliance, and struggling with thanksgiving when focused on personal accomplishments or negative aspects of life. 3. The importance of gratitude is emphasized through various passages, contrasting thankful believers with unthankful individuals who do not glorify God. Thankfulness is seen as a characteristic of those who have experienced God's grace and salvation. 4. The reasons for being thankful are stressed, including God's grace in salvation, His care for His followers, His provision for their needs, and His comforting presence, particularly in difficult circumstances. Action items: 1. Develop a habit of expressing gratitude, both to God and to others, for even the small things in life. 2. Focus on God's grace and remember the significance of salvation in cultivating a thankful heart. 3. Guard against foolish thinking that diminishes the need for thanksgiving, such as taking credit for one's own accomplishments or feeling entitled to blessings. 4. Recognize God's intimate knowledge of individual needs and His provision, and be grateful for His care. 5. Seek comfort in God during challenging times, acknowledging His grace and presence as a source of consolation. Sermon Notes: Give Thanks:      Some Don't      Why we Must All Circumstances: God's Will: In Christ Jesus: Thanksgiving Prayer Lord, I'm surrendered to you. I am yours and my life is hidden in Christ Jesus.  Therefore, I know, I am certain that all these things are working according to your plan and purposes. I know you are aware that you are working, and that you will bring all things to completion.  Therefore, I give thanks to you today and everyday. Amen