“O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: for his mercy endureth forever.” Ps. 107:1 Gratitude - Appreciation of kindness

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thes.5:18

“Where are the Nine?” Lk. 17:17 Luke 17:15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, 16. And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. 17. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?

“I thank thee, O Father” Matt. 11:25 “And he took the cup and gave thanks” Matt.26:27 “Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me” Jn.11:41 “He took the seven loaves, and gave thanks” Mk.8:6-7

Forget their giver - Jas. 1:17 Ignore the gifts - do not count their blessings Take blessings for granted Conceit – forget that God is source of all blessings Fail to express their gratitude – Rom.1:21-22

A believing Heart - Rom. 8:28 A heart that considers - Isa. 1:3  Thank is from same word as Think  To think is to thank, consider, ponder, meditate  Luke 17:15 “saw” = be aware, consider A Loving Heart

Be mindful of the common blessings  Health  Families  Homes and cars  Friends Notice Special Blessings  Write a note - small gift  Right thing at right time Determine to be a blessing to others  Gratitude sets forth a chain reaction

Benefits of Gratitude Grateful people are more:  Optimistic  Energetic  Enthusiastic  Determined  Interested  Joyful

Benefits of Gratitude Grateful people:  Feel stronger about handling challenges  Have fewer illnesses  Get more sleep  Exercise More

Benefits of Gratitude Those people who are grateful:  Are more likely to help other people  Are less envious  Have more clear thinking  Experience less stress  Are more organized

Benefits of Gratitude Grateful people  Have closer family ties  Are less materialistic  Have longer lives

“O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: for his mercy endureth forever.” Ps. 107:1 “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thes.5:18

We need training in the art of gratitude Can you love God without gratitude ? Can you love anyone without gratitude? Plan of Salvation - H.B.R.C.B Obedience shows our appreciation

Sermon by Arthur Pigman Evans Church of Christ 515 Gibbs Road Evans, Ga Sunday Morning Nov. 28, 2010