Title: THE VALUE OF APPRECIATION
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Luke 17:17-18
"Jesus asked, 'Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?'"
Supporting Texts:
Psalm 103:2
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Psalm 107:8-9
James 1:17
Colossians 3:15
INTRODUCTION:
Appreciation is a powerful expression of gratitude that reflects the heart’s response to blessings and kindness. In Luke 17, Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one returned to give thanks. This story highlights the importance and impact of showing appreciation. When we appreciate God and others, it honours the giver and opens us up to deeper blessings and relationships. This study explores the value of appreciation and its significance in the life of every believer.
1. APPRECIATION HONOURS GOD
Expressing gratitude is a way of acknowledging God’s goodness and honouring Him. When we fail to appreciate, we neglect the source of our blessings and gifts.
a) Recognising God as the Source
Every good gift comes from God, and acknowledging Him is an act of worship (James 1:17).
b) Showing Reverence and Awe
Appreciation reflects reverence for God’s mighty acts and kindness (Psalm 103:2).
c) Offering Thanksgiving and Praise
Thanksgiving keeps us mindful of God’s work in our lives (Psalm 107:8-9).
d) Deepening Our Relationship with God
When we appreciate, we invite God to continue His presence in our lives.
Biblical Example:
The one leper who returned to give thanks received a greater blessing, as Jesus commended his faith (Luke 17:19).
2. APPRECIATION ATTRACTS MORE BLESSINGS
Gratitude has a way of multiplying blessings. When we show appreciation, it opens doors to more of God’s favour and provision.
a) Thankfulness as a Seed for Increase
When we give thanks, it often results in more blessings (John 6:11-12).
b) Inviting God’s Continued Provision
Appreciation acknowledges our dependence on God, drawing His favour (Psalm 100:4).
c) Experiencing Fulfilment and Contentment
Gratitude brings contentment and keeps us focused on God’s sufficiency (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
d) Encouraging a Heart of Generosity
When we appreciate, it creates a cycle of giving and receiving in God’s kingdom.
Biblical Example:
Jesus gave thanks before feeding the five thousand, leading to an abundance that fed all (John 6:11).
3. APPRECIATION BUILDS RELATIONSHIPS
Appreciation strengthens relationships with others and reflects love and respect. Gratitude builds unity and fosters a spirit of encouragement within the church and our personal lives.
a) Expressing Gratitude to Others
Showing appreciation builds goodwill and encourages others (Colossians 3:15).
b) Building a Community of Love
A grateful heart fosters a culture of love and support (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
c) Creating a Spirit of Joy and Positivity
Appreciation lifts up the spirits of others and brings joy to relationships.
d) Modeling Christlike Humility
Jesus appreciated others and humbly served, showing us the value of gratitude.
Biblical Example:
Paul frequently expressed appreciation for others’ faith and partnership in the gospel, building unity (Philippians 1:3-5).
4. APPRECIATION GUARDS AGAINST PRIDE AND ENTITLEMENT
Gratitude keeps us humble, reminding us that everything we have is by God’s grace. A thankful heart protects us from pride and a sense of entitlement.
a) Acknowledging God’s Mercy
Appreciation reminds us of our need for God’s mercy and grace (Psalm 136:1).
b) Staying Humble and Dependent on God
Gratitude keeps us grounded, knowing we are sustained by God alone (Psalm 116:12).
c) Avoiding a Spirit of Complaining
A thankful heart helps us avoid grumbling and focus on God’s blessings (Philippians 2:14).
d) Preventing a Sense of Entitlement
Gratitude reminds us that we are recipients of God’s unearned favour.
Biblical Example:
King Nebuchadnezzar’s lack of gratitude and pride led to his downfall until he acknowledged God (Daniel 4:30-37).
5. APPRECIATION BRINGS INNER JOY AND PEACE
Gratitude has a positive impact on our mental and emotional well-being. It brings joy and peace, enabling us to focus on God’s faithfulness rather than our challenges.
a) Rejoicing in God’s Goodness
A grateful heart finds joy in God’s blessings, no matter the circumstances (Psalm 118:24).
b) Maintaining Inner Peace and Contentment
Appreciation brings contentment, reducing anxiety and fostering peace (Philippians 4:6-7).
c) Focusing on God’s Faithfulness
Gratitude keeps our focus on God’s past faithfulness, strengthening our trust in Him.
d) Developing Resilience in Trials
A thankful heart builds resilience and hope, even in difficult times (James 1:2-3).
Biblical Example:
Paul and Silas praised God despite being in prison, and God’s presence filled their hearts with peace and strength (Acts 16:25).
CONCLUSION:
Appreciation is a powerful expression that honours God, opens doors to blessings, builds relationships, and guards our hearts against pride. A grateful heart is always ready to give thanks to God and others. Let us cultivate the habit of appreciation, remembering to thank God for His countless blessings, both big and small, and appreciating those He has placed around us.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me cultivate a heart of gratitude in all circumstances.
2. Father, forgive me for moments of ingratitude and help me acknowledge Your goodness.
3. Holy Spirit, teach me to appreciate others and build healthy relationships.
4. Lord, let my gratitude open doors to more of Your blessings in my life.
5. Father, help me stay humble and avoid a spirit of entitlement.
6. Lord, fill my heart with joy and peace as I focus on Your faithfulness.
7. Help me honour You, Lord, with sincere appreciation for every blessing.
8. Lord, give me the grace to appreciate You even during difficult times.
9. Father, let my life be a testimony of gratitude and contentment.
10. Lord, help me to encourage others and create a culture of appreciation around me.
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS
1. I declare that a spirit of gratitude will fill your heart and overflow into every area of your life.
2. May your appreciation of God bring increased blessings and open doors in your life.
3. I declare that your relationships will be strengthened through genuine appreciation and love.
4. May the peace of God surround you as you maintain a grateful heart.
5. I declare that pride and entitlement will have no place in your life.
6. May the joy of the Lord fill you as you express appreciation daily.
7. I declare that God’s presence will be evident in your life as you honour Him with thanksgiving.
8. May God’s favour increase upon you as you cultivate a heart of appreciation.
9. I declare that your life will inspire others to live in gratitude and contentment.
10. As you appreciate God and others, may you experience breakthroughs and divine favour.
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