Dr. Stanley states that the key to maintaining gratefulness is to know that God is always in control. When we focus on Him and practice thanksgiving, our troubles and frustrations lose the position they once occupied in our hearts and minds. They are replaced by reminders of God’s provision and renewed trust in Him.
Sermon Outline
It’s easy to be grateful for blessings. But what about those things that aren’t so pleasing? In today’s message, Dr. Stanley discusses how we can express thanksgiving even in painful circumstances.
Key Passage: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18
Supporting Passages: Psalm 103:19; Psalm 119:105; Psalm 119:130; Romans 8:28
It’s important to understand that sometimes God instructs us to do something without telling us exactly how. (See 1 Thess. 5:12-18.)
► “How does God expect me to give thanks in pain, disappointment, hurt, separation, loss, failure?”
Seeking guidance in God’s Word (Ps. 119:105; Ps. 119:130) …
Teaches us about Him.
Reveals the “how” for His instructions.
Is facilitated by the Holy Spirit.
Giving thanks in all things …
Is the will of God for us (1 Thess. 5:18).
Is possible because we are “in Christ” (v. 18).
Giving thanks …
Motivates us to look for God’s purposes. We can say, “God, what is Your goal for me in this thing I do not like?”
Brings our will into submission to God’s will. We can say, “God, I want what You want, no matter what.”
Reminds us of our dependence on Him. We can say, “God, I’m giving thanks because I’m trusting and depending on You.”
Builds trust. We can say, “God, I don’t get it, but I’m going to rest in You anyway.”
Is essential to rejoicing during suffering. We can say, “God, since I believe You are in everything, I can find joy and peace in this situation.”
Increases the impact of our witness. We can say, “God, may my thanksgiving in this moment bring You glory.”
Displaces anxiety and brings peace. We can say, “God, trusting You gives me a better perspective on my worries.”
Keeps our focus on God. We can say, “God, I’m looking to You, not my circumstances.”
Energizes us. We can say, “God, in this draining situation, I have strength from You.”
The key to giving thanks is to believe God has complete control. Scripture tells us …
“The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His sovereignty rules over all” (Ps. 103:19).
Because we are “in Christ” (1 Thess. 5:18), God is working all things to our good (Rom. 8:28).
► “God the Father is granting me the highest honor: ‘I want to make you like My Son, Jesus Christ.’”
When we give thanks …
Our faith will prove unshakeable.
Conflicts with others will not result in bitterness.
We receive comfort in heartache.
Circumstances will not steal our contentment.
Our gratitude will be sincere.
After Watching
Take a moment to look around you, pausing to notice things for which you’re grateful. These could include an object, a person, a pet, or just the comfort of your surroundings. Next, offer this prayer of thanksgiving: Thank You, O Lord, for everyone and everything You have given me. There aren’t enough words to celebrate all You’ve done. In Jesus’ name, amen. This can be repeated for other places you appreciate—rooms in your home, your workplace, your church, or a favorite spot like a library or coffee shop.
It’s common to feel anxious about one thing (or many) in our life these days. Whenever you experience this unsettling feeling, write your worries down and share them with the Lord in prayer. Next, fold the paper in half as many times as you can until it’s as small as you can make it. This is a great reminder that nothing is too big for God to handle. Then throw the paper away and trust He will see to it all.
