Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God. To the saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:1-2
Shalom, grace, peace. Things as they should be. This is what Jesus offers us.
Ephesians 3-14
This is a long sentence from Paul that comes from a heart of gratitude.
We have been blessed with all spiritual blessings. God loves to bless his people. And we have the opportunity to bless God for blessing us.
Our God is a personal God. He is your rescuer, your Savior. He knows your name.
When God looks at you, he doesn't see your failures. He sees the sacrifice of His son on the cross.
You're not trusting Him if you are still trying to do this on your own.
You are chosen.
You are adopted.
You are redeemed.
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Psalm 107:1
Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:20
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
No matter how small your heart may feel, it can still have room for gratitude.
Chose to be thankful for less than perfect gifts. Give thanks right where you are.
We can choose to cave into despair, or we can give thanks.
Notice answered prayers.
Reflect
1. Discuss that ways that you have been personally blessed by God. What are ways that you can bless Him?
2. What does it mean to you to be chosen, adopted, and redeemed.
3. How aware are you of answered prayers or how God has provided for you? What are some of those answered prayers?
4. How can you develop a heart of gratitude? How can you make it a habit, a reflex?
Do
Make your own cardboard testimony. Where were you and where are you now? We would love to see it. Email it to pastors@thecrossing.church
Go Deeper
Discuss some of powerful ways that God's people gave thanks to Him in difficult circumstances. Greg mentioned Job and Paul. Who else comes to your mind?
We sang This is My Story. What is your story?
Are there ways that you can share your story as a way of inviting people to into a story with God of their own?