And Be Ye Thankful

Colossians 3:14-15

INTRODUCTION:

1. November 23, 2000. For many, this will simply be a day off from work. For others it will be a time to enjoy the parades, football games, and overeat. Many seem to forget that Thanksgiving is a national holiday set aside to give thanks to God for our many blessings.

2. Christians should be thankful every day of the year – Colossians 3:14-15.

DISCUSSION:

I. How are we to express our thanks?

A. Thanksgiving. We express our thankfulness in prayer – John 6:11, Philippians 4:6, and in hymns of gratitude (ex: O Thou Fount of Every Blessing").

B. Thanksliving. Our behavior often expresses our appreciation to God for all he has done for us.

II. Benefits of being thankful.

A. Giving thanks causes us to realize we are dependent upon God – Philippians 4:19, James 1:16-17.

B. Giving thanks causes us to realize how much we are blessed.

C. Giving thanks causes us to realize our responsibilities concerning what we have – I Timothy 6:17-19.

D. Giving thanks causes us to become content rather than covetous.

III. Things for which we ought to be thankful.

A. For people. Our civil authorities – I Timothy 2:1-3, our families, our friends, our spiritual brethren – Ephesians 1:16, those who taught us the gospel.

B. For physical blessings. God’s creation – Psalm 75:1, our food – Matthew 15:36, our clothing, our homes.

C. For spiritual blessings. Redemption through Christ’s blood – Ephesians 1:7, forgiveness of sins – Ephesians 1:7, an inheritance – Ephesians 1:11, I Peter 1:3-4, hope of heaven – I Corinthians 15:19.

CONCLUSION:

1. What will you be doing this coming Thursday?

2. Let us all develop a "year-round" attitude of thanksgiving.

 

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