God's people have been giving thanks long before it was started in this country. America did not invent Thanksgiving.
James 1:16-17 - How soon we forget that all the good gifts we have are from God.
Bitterness and Discontentment are results of ingratitude. They are the marks of a crumbling society - one that refuses to honor God. We, as God's children, cannot or should not be ungrateful.
2 Tim. 3:2-4, Rom. 1:21-24
Josh. 4:1-7, 19-24 - Before this, there was the exodus from Egypt, disobedience at Kadesh Barnea, a generation wanders for 40 years, Joshua takes them into the Promised Land.
I. Reasons to give God Thanks
#1. For what He's done: Examples: Exodus, enemies, provided manna and quail in the wilderness, Pilgrims
Question: What has he done for you? Physically? Spiritually? We seldom give God credit.
#2, For what he's promised. John 10:10 "I have come that you might have life..." (direction, peace, purpose) Promised Land. Ultimate Promised Land.. John 11:25-27 - Do you believe this? What a day that will be. - God is doing good things in our lives right now.
There are many reasons to give Him thanks, but, How?
II. How to give God thanks.
#1. Remember - ex. 12 stones after then crossed the Jordan.
Psm. 78:9-11 - Ephraimites condemned. they failed to remember what God had done. Remember daily in prayer - 1 Thess. 5:18 Count your blessings.
Pass down faith. Demonstrate in front of your children what He's done.
III. What are the results of giving thanks?
#1. A grateful heart is a happy heart. = Psm. 9:1-2 God has a way of using gratitude to change heart and mind.
#2. People turn to God. When have a grateful heart, look different - Matt. 5:16 As Christians, when we live a life of gratitude, we will look different to the world.
Psm. 67 - Before you eat, thank God for what He's done, promised. Recount His faithfulness and provision through song like Psm. 13:6
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