Gratitude In All Circumstance

Prepared by: J.A.O. Vergara  |  December 2024

15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

~1 Thessalonians 5:15-18 [NKJB]

[RECHARGED Framework]

Entry Points:

Moses was denied by God to enter the promised land (Numbers 20:12) because of his anger issues with the ever-complaining nation Israel. He smashed the rock at Meribah instead of just talking into it as God instructed. This happened almost close to the end of their 40-years wandering in the wilderness.

However, even if he knew that he could not enter the promised land, he had fulfilled God’s order to bring the nation into Canaan. Despite the seemingly unfair and heartbreaking consequence, Moses has never faltered in giving his all to praise ang bring God the glory.

As a result, God has never personally comforted Moses. God has made sure that Moses would have a good rest. God personally buried Moses (Deuteronomy 34:5-6). Moses died in peace. Moses has been grateful and trusted God’s ways as the best ways, even if he was disappointed in not entering Canaan. Moses had a peaceful death, in God’s presence.

Context:

The Thessalonian Christians, recipients of Paul's first epistle, were facing significant persecution. They were enduring hardship, yet Paul encouraged them to maintain a spirit of gratitude. This verse, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, is a powerful reminder that gratitude is a choice, even in the most difficult of times. It’s a divine prescription for a joyful and fulfilling Christian life.

The major themes of 1 Thessalonians are: Salvation through faith (1:10); Repentance and Baptism (1:9); Love and Unity (1:3, 4:9); Second Coming of the Lord (4:16-17); Christian Conduct (4:11); Spiritual Growth in Prayer and Thanksgiving (5:17-18).

Overall, 1 Thessalonians is a letter of love, encouragement, and instruction, written to a young church facing challenges and seeking to grow in their faith.

To express love and concern: Paul wanted to reassure the Thessalonians of his love and continued interest in their spiritual well-being. 

To address misconceptions: Some misunderstandings had arisen within the church, particularly regarding the timing of Christ's return and the fate of those who had died before His coming. 

To provide guidance: Paul offered practical advice on living a godly life, including issues of sexual purity, work ethic, and social relationships. 

To encourage perseverance: The Thessalonians were facing persecution, and Paul sought to strengthen their faith and endurance. 

To instill hope: Paul emphasized the hope of Christ's return and the future resurrection of believers.

Honor:

God is always worthy of all the praises for He has sustained His people!

As Romans 13:7 teaches, “..we must honor to whom honor is due..”

Above all, we honor God.

Secondly, we honor our leaders, so. God be praised for He has sustained our pastors and leaders. God be glorified!

Admonish:

Colossians 3:16

"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."

1 Thessalonians 5:19-22

19 Do not quench the Spirit; 20 do not despise prophetic [a]utterances. 21 But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; 22 abstain from every form of evil.

Reteach:

Point 1: Gratitude is a Divine Command

for this is = G: gar touto​

Intensification of making an action

Scriptural Basis: 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Explanation: Paul clearly states that giving thanks in all circumstances is God's will for us in Christ Jesus. It's not merely a suggestion but a direct command.

Application: We, like the Thessalonians, face trials and tribulations. Yet, God calls us to a life of gratitude. We must cultivate a heart that is constantly thankful to God, regardless of our circumstances. 

As a church of Christ, we know that, "God's will is perfect, and His ways are righteous. We have faith that everything happens for a purpose because we know and love God (Romans 8:28).

Like Moses, we must submit ourselves to His will and obey His commands, even when we do not fully understand them. And we must be thankful for it.

Point 2: Gratitude is a Weapon Against Adversity

Scriptural Basis: Philippians 4:6-7

Explanation: This verse offers a powerful prescription for overcoming anxiety and finding peace in any situation.

Application: In the midst of life's storms, let us choose gratitude. Gratitude shifts our focus from our problems to God’s provision. It helps us to see the blessings in our lives, no matter how small they may seem. A grateful heart is a powerful weapon against negativity. It can help us to resist the temptation to focus on the negative aspects of our circumstances. Gratitude deepens our faith in God’s goodness and faithfulness. It reminds us that He is always working for our good. Gratitude deepens our faith in God’s goodness and faithfulness. It reminds us that He is always working for our good.

Point 3: Gratitude is a Catalyst for Spiritual Growth

Scriptural Basis: Colossians 2:7

Explanation: Gratitude deepens our relationship with God. It allows us to see His hand in our lives and appreciate His divine providence.

Application: Let's cultivate a lifestyle of gratitude. By thanking God for His blessings, we grow spiritually. As the Church of Christ teaches, "Gratitude is a key to spiritual growth. It helps us to develop a closer relationship with God and to appreciate the blessings He has bestowed upon us."

Point 4: Gratitude Fosters a Positive Mindset

Scriptural Basis: Philippians 4:8

Explanation: A grateful heart leads to a positive mindset. It helps us to focus on the good, rather than the bad.

Application: When we cultivate gratitude, we replace negative thoughts with positive ones. This positive mindset can significantly improve our mental and emotional well-being. As the Church of Christ teaches, "A positive attitude is a powerful tool that can help us overcome challenges and live a fulfilling life."

Point 5: Gratitude Draws Us Closer to God

Scriptural Basis: Psalm 100:4

Explanation: Gratitude is an act of worship. When we express gratitude to God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and goodness.

Application: By focusing on God's blessings, we deepen our relationship with Him. Gratitude is a spiritual discipline that draws us closer to the divine. As the Church of Christ teaches, "A heart filled with gratitude is a heart that is open to God's love and grace."

Generalize:

Scriptural Basis: Ephesians 5:15-17​

15 So then, be careful how you walk, not as unwise people but as wise, 16 making the most of your time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.​

In conclusion: gratitude is not a ritual for some spiritual benefits; it's a powerful Christian lifestyle. By choosing gratitude, we obey God's command, overcome adversity, and grow spiritually. Let us, like the Thessalonians, live a life of gratitude, even in the face of trials.

Whatever circumstance we/you are facing now, you can either be like Moses (who trusts in God’s will and plan) or we/you can be like those Israelites who were just for a ride and complain?

We can be like the generation of Joshua and Caleb who prefer to listen and follow Moses, and trust and have faith in God and His promises.

Exhortation:

As we journey through life's challenges, let us remember the words of the apostle Paul: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6)

Do not forget:

Let us embrace a life of gratitude. By choosing to be thankful, we align ourselves with God's will, combat adversity, foster a positive mindset, and deepen our spiritual connection with Him.

Do not Forget:

Colossians 3:17 

Whatever you do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

We want to be like Joshua’s and Caleb's generation who were able to enter the Promised Land.

You are now RECHARGED!

All Glory Belongs to God!