DECEMBER: MY MONTH OF GRATITUDE

Title: DECEMBER: MY MONTH OF GRATITUDE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Supporting Texts: Psalm 103:1-5, Philippians 4:6-7, Colossians 3:15-17, Psalm 136:1-4

INTRODUCTION:

As the year draws to a close, December offers us a chance to reflect on God’s goodness and faithfulness. Gratitude is a powerful spiritual principle that unlocks more blessings and positions us to enter the new year with renewed strength and joy.

1. WHAT IS GRATITUDE?

a) Acknowledging God’s Goodness:
Gratitude is the recognition of God’s mercy, love, and provision in our lives (Psalm 107:1).

b) A Command from God:
The Bible instructs us to give thanks in all circumstances, showing that gratitude is a divine expectation (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

c) A Heartfelt Response to God’s Faithfulness:
Gratitude flows from a heart that remembers God’s deeds (Psalm 103:1-2).

d) A Lifestyle of Worship:
Gratitude is more than words; it’s a way of life that honours God (Colossians 3:17).

Biblical Example: David continually expressed gratitude through psalms, even in challenging times (Psalm 34:1).

2. WHY GRATITUDE IS IMPORTANT

a) It Honours God:
Gratitude glorifies God and acknowledges His sovereignty (Psalm 50:23).

b) It Unlocks More Blessings:
A thankful heart attracts more of God’s goodness (Luke 17:17-19).

c) It Brings Peace and Joy:
Gratitude shifts our focus from problems to God’s faithfulness, giving us peace (Philippi noans 4:6-7).

d) It Strengthens Our Faith:
Remembering past victories fuels our faith for future challenges (Psalm 77:11-12).

Biblical Example: The leper who returned to thank Jesus was made whole, receiving more than healing (Luke 17:15-19).

3. HOW TO PRACTISE GRATITUDE

a) Count Your Blessings:
Reflect on God’s goodness and list the blessings you’ve received (Psalm 103:2).

b) Offer Praise and Thanksgiving:
Spend time in worship, thanking God for His faithfulness (Hebrews 13:15).

c) Share Testimonies:
Tell others about God’s goodness, encouraging them to trust in Him (Psalm 96:3).

d) Cultivate a Habit of Gratitude:
Make thanksgiving a daily practice, not just a seasonal one (Colossians 4:2).

Biblical Example: Paul and Silas praised God in prison, and their gratitude led to a miraculous deliverance (Acts 16:25-26).

4. BENEFITS OF A GRATEFUL HEART

a) It Draws You Closer to God:
Gratitude deepens your relationship with God, fostering intimacy (James 4:8).

b) It Changes Your Perspective:
Gratitude helps you see challenges as opportunities for growth (Romans 8:28).

c) It Releases God’s Power in Your Life:
A thankful heart invites God’s intervention in your circumstances (Psalm 22:3).

d) It Promotes Emotional and Physical Well-being:
Gratitude brings joy and reduces stress, impacting your overall health (Proverbs 17:22).

Biblical Example: Hannah’s gratitude after Samuel’s birth led her to dedicate him to God, and she was blessed with more children (1 Samuel 2:1-10).

5. MAKING DECEMBER YOUR MONTH OF GRATITUDE

a) Reflect on the Year’s Journey:
Take stock of God’s blessings and faithfulness throughout the year (Psalm 90:12).

b) Celebrate God’s Goodness:
Dedicate time in December to thank God for His grace and mercy (Psalm 118:24).

c) Sow Seeds of Gratitude:
Express your gratitude through acts of kindness and generosity (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).

d) Plan for a Grateful New Year:
Set goals that reflect your gratitude to God, aiming to serve Him better (Philippians 3:13-14).

Biblical Example: Mary’s song of gratitude, the Magnificat, celebrated God’s faithfulness and favour (Luke 1:46-55).

CONCLUSION:

As we close the year, let gratitude fill your heart. December 2024 is an opportunity to reflect on God’s faithfulness and prepare for the new year with thanksgiving. Remember, a heart full of gratitude attracts divine blessings and favour.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Thank You, Lord, for Your faithfulness throughout this year.

2. Lord, help me cultivate a lifestyle of gratitude.

3. I praise You for the victories and blessings of 2024.

4. Father, I thank You for the challenges that have made me stronger.

5. Lord, I am grateful for my family and loved ones.

6. Thank You, Lord, for Your provision and protection.

7. Father, I commit the coming year into Your hands with gratitude.

8. Lord, let my life continually reflect thanksgiving and praise.

9. Thank You, Father, for the miracles and testimonies yet to come.

10. I give You all the glory for being my God and guide.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. This December, your heart will overflow with gratitude.

2. You will reflect on 2024 and see God’s hand in every situation.

3. Every seed of thanksgiving will yield abundant blessings in your life.

4. As you thank God, He will open new doors of favour for you.

5. Your gratitude will draw you closer to God like never before.

6. You will end this year with joy and enter the new year with songs of praise.

7. The peace of God will fill your heart and mind as you give thanks.

8. Gratitude will be your lifestyle, and God’s blessings will never cease.

9. Every challenge of 2024 will turn into a testimony of God’s faithfulness.

10. Your December will be marked by divine surprises and breakthroughs.