Thanksgiving

I) Introduction

II) Phases of Thanksgiving

1. For the past (Calvary) provides redemption
   
2. For the present (Christian Living/Holy Spirit) provides sanctification
   
3. For the future (Heaven) provides reward
   

III) Thankfulness towards God - I Cor 15:57 - But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through out Lord Jesus Christ.

1. It is given and not earned - JN 3:16 & Eph 2:8, 9 - For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast.
   
2. The victory was made known through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus. Colo 1:14 - In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.
   

IV) Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Eph 5:20).

1. For others/ourselves
   
2. Spiritual/Monetary blessings
   
3. Trials and tribulations
   
4. How to give thanks (VS 19) - Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.
   

V) Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. (Phil 4:6)

1. Supplies of good
   
2. Recipients of mercy
   
3. Gratefulness for what we have / Right frame of mind
   
4. God already knows our needs
   

VI) In Watching Colo 4:2 - Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.

1. Prayer and thanksgiving go hand in hand
   

VII) In Reception I Tim 4:3 - ...to be received with thanksgiving

VIII) In everything I Thess 5:18 - In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

CONCL: Without a thankful heart worship is impossible.

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