Gratitude Sermon

Sermon Title: “Gratitude: A Key to God’s Presence”

Opening Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV)
“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

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Introduction

Gratitude is more than good manners. It is a key that opens the door to God’s presence, peace, and provision.
In a world filled with complaints, stress, and entitlement, the grateful heart stands out—and shines with the light of heaven.
Gratitude is not a feeling; it’s a choice and a spiritual discipline.

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1. Gratitude is God’s Will

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:18
“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

God’s will is not just for us to be happy, wealthy, or even healthy—it’s to be thankful in every situation.
Notice, it doesn’t say “for everything,” but “in everything.” Even in hardship, we can find reasons to thank God: for His presence, His promises, and His plan.

Point: Gratitude aligns us with God’s will and keeps our hearts soft.

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2. Gratitude Guards the Heart and Mind

Scripture: Philippians 4:6–7
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God… will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Gratitude is a weapon against anxiety. When we thank God even as we pray, it lifts the burden from our shoulders and puts it in His hands.
Gratitude doesn’t deny problems—it declares that God is bigger than the problem.

Point: Gratitude brings peace and protection over our hearts and minds.

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3. Gratitude Invites God’s Presence

Scripture: Psalm 100:4
“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.”

Thanksgiving is how we come into God’s presence. Worship starts with a thankful heart.
A thankless Christian will often feel distant from God, but a grateful Christian will live close to Him.

Point: If you want more of God’s presence, start with more thanksgiving.

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4. Gratitude Multiplies What You Have

Scripture: John 6:11
“And Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks He distributed them…”

Jesus gave thanks before the miracle. He didn’t wait until the bread multiplied—He thanked God for what seemed insufficient.
Gratitude turns little into much. It positions us to receive increase.

Point: Don’t wait for more to be thankful—be thankful, and watch God do more.

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5. Gratitude Honors God and Keeps You Humble

Scripture: Luke 17:15–18
“And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned… and with a loud voice glorified God… So Jesus answered and said, ‘Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine?’”

Only one leper returned to thank Jesus. Gratitude glorifies God and keeps us in right relationship with Him.
The nine were healed, but the one who gave thanks was made whole—inside and out.

Point: Gratitude is not just good manners—it’s powerful worship.

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Conclusion

Gratitude is more than a polite response; it is a powerful, spiritual practice. When we are grateful:
• We align with God’s will.
• We protect our peace.
• We invite His presence.
• We receive increase.
• We glorify and honor Him.

So today, don’t wait for perfect circumstances to give thanks. Start where you are.
Gratitude is not a reaction—it’s a decision. And that decision can change everything.

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Prayer

Lord, give us hearts that remember.
Teach us to see Your hand in every situation.
May gratitude become our lifestyle, not just a response.
Help us to enter Your gates with thanksgiving and live lives that glorify You.
Amen.