LIVING A LIFE OF THANKSGIVING

LIVING A LIFE OF THANKSGIVING

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Supporting Texts: Psalm 103:1-5, Philippians 4:6, Colossians 3:15-17, Luke 17:11-19, Ephesians 5:20

INTRODUCTION:
Thanksgiving is more than a seasonal celebration or a one-time expression—it is a lifestyle that reflects a heart that continually acknowledges God's goodness. For the believer, thanksgiving should be a daily posture and not merely a reaction to favourable circumstances. It is rooted in the recognition that God is sovereign, faithful, and always working for our good.

A life of thanksgiving keeps our hearts tender, our faith vibrant, and our relationship with God thriving. It cultivates humility, breeds contentment, and aligns us with heaven’s perspective even during trials. Ingratitude, on the other hand, blinds us to God’s blessings and opens the door to bitterness and doubt.

As we consider how to live a life of thanksgiving, we will explore what it means to give thanks always, how it affects our walk with God, and why it is a spiritual discipline that must be cultivated daily.

1. THANKSGIVING IS GOD’S WILL FOR EVERY BELIEVER
Living with a thankful heart is not optional — it is commanded by God.

a) Give Thanks in All Circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
No matter what we face, thanksgiving must remain our response.

b) Gratitude Aligns Us with God’s Will (Colossians 3:17)
When we give thanks, we walk in obedience to God’s design.

c) Complaining Resists God’s Purpose (Numbers 11:1)
Murmuring dishonours God and blocks blessings.

d) Thankfulness Is a Mark of Spiritual Maturity (Hebrews 13:15)
Mature believers offer the sacrifice of praise in all seasons.

Biblical Example: Job worshipped and gave thanks even after his loss (Job 1:20-21).

2. THANKSGIVING MAGNIFIES GOD AND STRENGTHENS FAITH
Thankfulness shifts our focus from problems to God’s power and faithfulness.

a) Praise Exalts God Above Circumstances (Psalm 34:1-3)
Thanksgiving glorifies God and brings Him closer to us.

b) It Builds Confidence in God's Promises (Romans 4:20-21)
Abraham grew strong in faith by giving glory to God.

c) Gratitude Fuels Joy and Peace (Philippians 4:6-7)
A thankful heart produces inner calm and mental clarity.

d) Thanksgiving Turns the Heart Away from Fear (Isaiah 12:2-5)
It reminds us of past victories and God's unfailing love.

Biblical Example: Paul and Silas praised God in prison and were miraculously delivered (Acts 16:25-26).

3. THANKSGIVING OPENS THE DOOR TO MORE BLESSINGS
A grateful heart attracts more of God’s grace and provision.

a) God Responds to Thankful Hearts (Luke 17:17-19)
Only one leper returned to give thanks—and he received wholeness.

b) Thankfulness Multiplies What You Have (John 6:11-13)
Jesus gave thanks before multiplying the loaves and fishes.

c) Gratitude Releases Divine Favour (Psalm 50:23)
Thanksgiving honours God and opens the way for salvation.

d) Thanksgiving Keeps You Content and Focused (1 Timothy 6:6-8)
It helps you appreciate God’s provision without comparison.

Biblical Example: David was a man after God's heart because he lived in thanksgiving and worship (Psalm 103:1-5).

4. THANKSGIVING IS A CONTINUAL ACT, NOT A MOMENTARY GESTURE
Gratitude must be constant, not occasional or circumstantial.

a) Give Thanks Always and for Everything (Ephesians 5:20)
There’s always something to thank God for—even in trials.

b) Make Thanksgiving Part of Your Prayer Life (Colossians 4:2)
Let it be the foundation of all your petitions.

c) Teach Your Soul to Remember God’s Goodness (Psalm 103:2)
Forget not His benefits—count your blessings regularly.

d) Thanksgiving Must Be Expressed, Not Hidden (Psalm 107:1-2)
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so—speak it out loud.

Biblical Example: The Canaanite woman thanked Jesus before receiving the full manifestation of her miracle (Matthew 15:21-28).

CONCLUSION:
A thankful heart is a powerful spiritual force. It honours God, strengthens our faith, and positions us to receive more from Him. Thanksgiving must be cultivated daily—not just in public worship, but in private devotion, in the face of trials, and in the routine of life.

When we choose to live a life of thanksgiving, we grow deeper in our relationship with God and influence others by our example. Gratitude is not only a response; it is a lifestyle that transforms us from the inside out. Let us rise each day with a heart of gratitude and go to bed with songs of thanksgiving on our lips.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, give me a heart that remains grateful in all seasons.
2. Lord, deliver me from the spirit of murmuring and complaining.
3. Help me to see Your goodness in every situation.
4. Fill my life with the joy and peace that flow from thanksgiving.
5. Let my life always magnify You through my gratitude.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You shall never lack reasons to give thanks!
2. May your heart overflow with unshakable joy and gratitude!
3. From today, you will see the goodness of the Lord in every situation!
4. Every closed door is opening as you offer God a sacrifice of praise!
5. You will live daily in the abundance and favour of a thankful heart!