Tag thankful

Gratitude: God expects it

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Gratitude; God expects it.

November’s cozy gatherings and pumpkin-spiced moments spark a flicker of gratitude in many of us. Yet, as Black Friday ads flood our screens and holiday shopping takes over, thankfulness often gets trampled under a scramble for deals. God’s Word, however, doesn’t limit gratitude to a single day like Thanksgiving. Scripture reveals that God expects His people to live with thankful hearts every day.

Gratitude refocuses our hearts toward His goodness. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Paul writes, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” This is no suggestion; it’s God’s clear expectation.

A compelling example of His displeasure with ingratitude comes from Numbers 11:1-6, where the Israelites grumbled about their wilderness provisions, longing for Egypt’s food instead of praising God for their miraculous deliverance. Their complaints provoked God’s anger, and fire broke out in their camp as a consequence. This stark moment shows that ingratitude dismisses God’s provision, and brings on God’s anger.

Today, when we fixate on what we lack (especially amid our seasonal materialistic rush) we risk echoing the Israelites’ error. Ingratitude is among the conditions that invoke God’s anger, (Romans 1:21). Gratitude, as psychologist Robert Emmons notes in his studies, shifts our focus from scarcity to abundance, helping us see God’s hand in every detail, from daily bread to His unending grace. We don’t need science to tell us what scripture already reveals (Matt 6:25-34).

Gratitude in our worship will deepen our connection to God. Psalm 100:4 says, “enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.” God expects gratitude because it acknowledges His sovereignty and faithfulness. When we thank Him daily, whether for an answered prayer or strength in trials, we are acknowledging His blessings in our lives (James 1:17). This counters the fleeting gratitude of social media posts that fade as holiday sales dominate. By making thankfulness a habit, we fulfill God’s desire for a people who recognize His goodness, drawing closer to Him in a world that often pulls us away.

Finally, a grateful heart is essential to being the light of the world that we are showing others, meeting His expectation for us to live as His light. Colossians 3:15-17 urges us to “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” and act “with gratitude.” Thankfulness fuels the brightness of our light and allows us to pierce the shadows of darkness, drawing others to Christ. When we’re grateful, we’re less likely to look like the word (in judgment or envy), and more likely to be a blessing to others. Gratitude strengthens our connection to those around us. In a season tempting us to value “things” over people, gratitude keeps us grounded in what matters.

God expects our gratitude every day, not just on Thanksgiving Day. Start now; thank Him for one thing each morning, big or small. Let’s glorify Him, avoiding the Israelites’ mistake, and let a thankful heart shine His love daily.

agape

spencer

Jesus and Gratitude

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Jesus and a Heart of Gratitude

Gratitude has a way of softening the heart, doesn’t it? It shifts our gaze from what’s missing to what’s present, from worry to wonder. In the life of Jesus, we see a beautiful model of thankfulness, even in the midst of challenges. The example of our Lord helps us to pause, reflect, and give thanks in our own lives.

Picture the scene: thousands of people, hungry and weary, gathered on a hillside. Jesus holds just five loaves and two fish; hardly enough for a crowd. Yet, in John 6:11, we read that Jesus took the loaves, JESUS GAVE THANKS, and distributed them through the hands of his disciples, and the food multiplied to feed over 5,000 people. Before the miracle even happened, Jesus gave thanks. We don’t give thanks solely on what we see, but on faith in God’s goodness. This moment reminds us that giving thanks, even when resources seem scarce reminds us to trust in God.

In another scene at the Last Supper, Jesus shared a meal that would become a cornerstone of Christian faith. In Luke 22:17-19, He took the cup and bread, JESUS GAVE THANKS, and broke them, sharing with His disciples. This was a deeply human moment of connection. “And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer” (Luke 22:15). Jesus knew betrayal and suffering were near, yet JESUS GAVE THANKS for the elements that represent His Body and His Blood. His gratitude in that bittersweet moment teaches us to be grateful even when the road ahead feels heavy.

In one more scene in John 11:41-42, as Jesus stood before Lazarus’ tomb, He lifted His eyes and said, “Father, I THANK YOU that You have heard Me” (emphasis mine seb). Lazarus was still dead when Jesus spoke these words, but He thanked God with confidence that His prayer would be answered. Not only that, He gave thanks to God vocally for the benefit of those around. “And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 11:42; cf. James 1:6). Perhaps this is a lesson for me? To give thanks in the view and hearing of others rather than simply saying, “I’ll pray for you.” This bold gratitude shows a deep trust in God, even in the face of death. It’s a powerful reminder that thankfulness isn’t just for what’s already happened but for what God has promised to do.

Jesus’ life shows us that gratitude isn’t just a reaction to what is, but faith in God for what will be. Whether He was facing a hungry crowd, a sacred meal, or a moment of loss, JESUS GAVE THANKS, leaving us an example to follow. For us, this can be a daily practice. Start small: thank God for a warm meal, a kind word, or a quiet moment. Write down three things each day you’re grateful for, or pause to pray before a challenge, trusting God’s provision; and be thankful for the things that God has promised. He has promised to care for us (Heb 13:5,6; Matt 6:33). He has promised the forgiveness of sins (1John 1:9-2:2). He has promised a crown (2Tim 4:6-8).

Giving thanks can change our negative attitudes, drawing us closer to God and each other. Let’s follow Jesus’ example, choosing thankfulness not just when life feels abundant but in every season, knowing God is always near.

Agape
spencer

How to know if we’re ungrateful

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“For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy.”

(2Timothy 3:2)

In Paul’s letter to Timothy, he warns of imposters in the last and perilous days. He lists a series of qualities that describe these traitors (cf 2Tim 3:2-8).

Among this descriptive list is the quality of being “UNTHANKFUL.”

We usually know when someone ELSE is being an ingrate, but seldom do we recognize it in ourselves. There are only two ways I know to see it in ourselves. One is through constant self-evaluation (cf. 2Cor 13:5), the other is learning by example (both positive & negative).

Let’s combine these strategies with a self-evaluation test using biblical examples.

Take this GRATITUDE self-test to know if we’re being grateful or ungrateful.

Do I only see…

  • the FORBIDDEN fruit?
  • the freedom to eat every other FRUIT in the garden?

(Gen 2:16-17; 3:4-6) Metaphorical for those forbidden “fruits” of the lust of the flesh.

Do I only notice…

  • Those that are ABSENT from the assemblies?
  • Those that are in ATTENDANCE?

(Mat 18:20; 1Cor 11:18)

What do I regularly think about…

  • WORRY and anxiety?
  • the WORD?

(Mat 6:33; Phil 4:8)

When I’m planning my contribution…

  • Do I Give GRUDGINGLY?
  • Do I Give GLADLY?

(2Cor 9:6-15)

When studying my bible do I…

  • Dread READING?
  • Look for the REAPING from what I read?

(John 20:30-31; 2Tim 2:15; Eph 3:3-4; 2Pet 1:5-10)

When assembling to worship with the saints, do I…

  • See it as an OBLIGATION I have to do?
  • See it as an OPPORTUNITY I get to do?

(John 4:24; Heb 10:25)

When it comes to my brethren what do I notice…

  • The HURT of some?
  • The HELPFULNESS of most?

(Num 11:5-6)

When the weather turns…

  • Do I only see the RAIN, snow, sun etc.?
  • Do I notice the blessings of REFRESHMENT?

(Acts 14:17; Matt 5:45)

What is my attitude toward my job?

  • Do I view it only as WORK to pay my bills?
  • Do I see it as WEALTH building to share & enjoy?

(Eph 4:28; 1Tim 6:17-19)

When I’m ill…

  • Do I exemplify the SICKNESS with an organ recital?
  • Do I SHOW my hope in my faithful endurance?

(Jas 5:11; 2Cor 4:16-18)

When trouble comes…

  • Do I only see the STRUGGLE?
  • Do I see the STRENGTH and patience that comes from endurance?

(Jas 1:1-3; Heb 12:11)

When I go into the marketplace…

  • Do I lament the COMMERCIALISM?
  • Do I see the nearly limitless CHOICES?

(Mat 20:13-15)

Life on earth is seldom easy. The way we respond to the struggles of life will determine how much HOPE we display. A positive response gives the best chance to reach the lost through our godly example (cf. 1Peter 3:1-6).

Spencer is an evangelist for the church of Christ in Borger Texas

9 Reasons for GRATITUDE

The Preacher 1 Comment

Are you grateful? As THANKSGIVING approaches, we’re reminded to be thankful. Have you tried to make a list of reasons to be grateful? May I suggest a 30 day challenge of being thankful. Here is my list for the first 9 days of November.

30 days of Thanksgiving.

What are you thankful for?

I’ll start…

Day 1

God’s Grace.

Titus 2:11-12 KJV

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, [12] Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

Day 2.

I’m grateful for Rain.

Matthew 5:45 KJV

That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

day 3.

I’m grateful for the ADVOCATE, Christ Jesus, who makes ATONEMENT.

1 John 2:1-5 KJV

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: [2] And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. [3] And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. [4] He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. [5] But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.

day 4.

I’m grateful for TRANSPORTATION so we’re able to GO and peach the gospel.

Mark 16:15-16 KJV

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. [16] He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

day 5.

I’m grateful for INVOCATION (prayer).

1 John 5:14-15 KJV

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: [15] And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. (cf John 9:31)

day 6.

I’m grateful for THE TEMPLE of God, His body, the church.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17 KJ21

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? [17] If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy. For the temple of God is holy, and ye are that temple. (1Peter 2:5)

day 7.

I’m grateful for the UNDERSTANDABLE Word of God.

Ephesians 3:3-4 KJ21

how by revelation He made known unto me the mystery (as I wrote before in a few words, [4] whereby when ye read this, ye may understand my knowledge of the mystery of Christ),

(cf. John 20:30-31; Rom 10:17)

day 8.

I’m grateful for my DEBT to God being paid by Christ, the Propitiation for my sins.

1 John 2:2-4 KJV

And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. [3] And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. [4] He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

Propitiation= 2434 hilasmós – properly, propitiation; an offering to appease (satisfy) an angry, offended party. 2434 (hilasmós) is only used twice (1Jn 2:2, 4:10) – both times of Christ’s atoning blood that appeases God’s wrath.

day 9.

I’m grateful for the ELECTION of the saints.

2 Peter 1:10 KJV

Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and ELECTION sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:

Biblical ELECTION is God choosing those who seek Him and obey the Gospel. (Heb 5:8-9; 2Thess 1:7-8). Biblical Election is NOT God randomly choosing individuals to be lost or saved.

He gave His Son to bring the means of salvation to any who will obey Him.

Why are you GRATEFUL?

Does anyone BOAST about us?

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2Thess 1:3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;

4 So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure:

5 Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:

6 Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;

Does anyone BOAST about us?

Because our faith grows exceedingly? v3

Oppression we endure patiently. v4

Abounding love one toward another. v3

Suffering for the kingdom of God. v5

Tribulations from Troublers. v4

In everything give thanks

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It’s quite easy to give thanks for those good things we enjoy. When we like the giver, like the gift and when we feel like we deserve it.

It’s not so easy to give thanks for those good things disguised as work. It’s often years later before we can find the reasons to be thankful.

The Hebrew writer alludes to this truth; “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” [Heb 12:11]

Is it possible to follow the command of God to give thanks for everything, even the not so fun stuff?

To illustrate this point, indulge me in a little walk down my own memory pain, ur I mean lane.

Growing up the son of a 3rd generation sign maker and sole proprietor, my bother and I found ourselves many SATURDAYS and most of the SUMMERS at our father’s SHOP. From very early days, “tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother,” I can remember spending hours holding a paint can, paint thinner, and paint pallet as my father hand painted all types & sizes of advertisements. Over time and learning to read, I became spell check before such a thing ever existed. I could tell which letter dad was about to form just from the position of the brush. I would audibly grunt as the squirrel haired stick approached the surface; it was my respectful warning for him to check his spelling.

“He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.” [Prov 10:5]

I HATED IT… sometimes. No kid wants to work it seems, and I was no different. But it wasn’t a choice. It was a matter of fact. It was as certain as a meal, or going to school. It was going to happen. Very early on I accepted my fate. I could go to the SHOP bitter or I could go to the SHOP & get better. Either way, I WAS GOING TO THE SHOP.

“Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.” [Prov 19:18]

I don’t know if it was the 3rd year or the 13th year, somewhere along the way it became an OPPORTUNITY to learn. The typical sign SHOP requires woodworking, painting, electrical and welding skills. It requires drawing, planning, organizing and socializing (sales). Over the years my older brother learned many of the fabrication skills while I, the younger, navigated toward the office, sales, and organizational skills. One day as dad left for a sales meeting, he shouted to a SHOP full of grown men, “Nobody answers the phone except Spencer!” I may have been 13 or 14 by then.  

“The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.”

[Prov 23:24]

As I reflect back on those dreaded days in the SHOP, I now have a better understanding and appreciation for them. Today I realize some of the lessons I’ve learned and the PERSON I’ve become because of those years. While at the moment there seemed to be no joy, but rather grief, many years later I am truly thankful for the time well spent.

While we can’t say what would have happened had my summers been spent under my own direction, we can make a fairly good guess they wouldn’t have been nearly as useful.

“The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.”

[Prov 23:24]

Today, I am thankful to my dad as well as to my heavenly FATHER for those dreadful years well spent at the SHOP. Many of you have had similar experiences, or maybe even more painful ones. May we reflect on the good and be thankful.

It may be difficult to find the good in every memory, but we can at least be grateful for our survival, growth, and the lessons learned. May we find the ability to fulfil the command of God and “In every thing give thanks.”

— spencer

Taking a Knee

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There has been a lot of news of late about football players taking a knee during the national anthem. What we’re witnessing are people, players, TV & Politicians vying for our attention in the most irreverent way possible, by making us angry. It seems to me that the real controversy here isn’t about patriotism, social justice, racial inequality, or free speech. It’s not even about the flag or the national anthem. It’s only about one thing – Gratitude.

You see, the reason anyone can “take a knee” is due to the fact that men and women of all colors spilled red blood on the ground to form this great country and to protect it from those who would want to see it fall. To be ignorant of that point is proof that many in our country have grown to be ungrateful. People often take for granted those things, the price of which was paid by another.

But this article is not for politics, it’s to give a biblical perspective on the world. You see, we’re not immune to becoming ungrateful. It’s easy for us to overlook the sacrifice and spilled blood that bought the church, that bought our lives [1Cor 6:20]. We too, take for granted those things that were done for us. And sometimes we forget that God is Sovereign, that Jesus is King and that He Reigns. [1Peter 3:22]

It reminds me of another person where it appeared he was being treated unfairly. A man who found himself in the middle of a discussion between God and Satan. His name is Job, and as he was living his life, minding his own business, everything changed. In a very short time, he lost all his 10 children to tragedy, he lost all his wealth worse than any stock market crash, he lost his health and then he lost the support of his wife. Last of all he lost all hope of receiving sympathy from his friends. You can read about it in the book of Job, chapters 1-2. Have any of us, or those players, suffered this kind of loss, experienced this kind of injustice?

Life is unfair, it’s cruel and often makes no sense. That was Job’s situation, he didn’t know why he had suffered so much pain. So, what did Job do? HE TOOK A KNEE!

Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, [Job 1:20]

Taking a Knee

Job didn’t give up, he didn’t curse God as his wife suggested, and he didn’t believe the false narrative of the mainstream. He maintained his integrity and remembered his creator. [Job 4:17, 36:3] This is gratitude. He could have easily believed the lie, but he had so much love for the truth [2Thess 2:10-11].

In good times, it’s easy to forget what God has done for us [Mat 5:45, Acts 14:17]. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. [James 1:17] In bad times, it’s even harder, often resorting to blaming Him or even doubting His existence. We can learn something from Job. We can learn to seek God in the good times and the bad.

But that’s not all. Job TOOK A KNEE on another occasion. At the end of the book, Job TOOK A KNEE for those who had been condemning him incorrectly. [Job 42:8-10]. It was after he prayed for his friends that God restored to him all his wealth.

With Job in mind, let’s see how we ought to ‘take a knee’…

  • Mt 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
  • 2Th 3:1 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:
  • 1Timothy 2:1-4 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

One more thing, while a few are “taking a knee”, there will come a day when EVERYONE will ‘TAKE A KNEE’ as they face the judgement.

For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.

Romans 14:11

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; Philippians 2:10