At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are committed to living out our faith in practical ways. One of the most transformative practices we can adopt is that of gratitude. As we reflect on Philippians 4:6-7, we are reminded that gratitude is not just a seasonal sentiment but a daily practice that shapes our lives and our faith.
The Power of Thanksgiving
Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to “not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” This scripture highlights the importance of approaching God with a heart full of gratitude. When we do so, we invite the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Gratitude shifts our focus from our worries to God’s faithfulness, reminding us that He is in control.
Living Gratitude Daily
Thanksgiving is more than a holiday; it’s an attitude of life. John F. Kennedy once said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” At Lakeview Christian Church, we strive to embody this principle by living out our gratitude every day. This means recognizing God’s blessings in our lives and responding with thanksgiving, not just in words but in actions.
Be the Change: Study, Share, Serve Our mission at Lakeview Christian Church is to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us,” and we do this through “Just 3” – Study, Share, Serve.
- Study: Dive into the Bible to discover the depth of God’s love and the many reasons we have to be thankful. Reflect on scriptures that remind us of His goodness and faithfulness, such as Psalm 100:4, which calls us to “enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise.”
- Share: Share your gratitude with others. Whether it’s through a kind word, a note of thanks, or a testimony of God’s work in your life, sharing gratitude can inspire and uplift those around you. As we share our stories of thankfulness, we encourage others to see God’s hand in their own lives.
- Serve: Let your gratitude motivate you to serve others. Acts of service are a powerful way to express thankfulness and to be the change in your community. When we serve, we demonstrate the love of Christ and reflect His generosity to those around us.
Conclusion Gratitude is a powerful attitude that can transform our lives and the lives of those around us. As we practice gratitude daily, we align ourselves with God’s will and open our hearts to His peace. Let us commit to living a life of gratitude, being the change as Jesus has changed us. By studying God’s Word, sharing our gratitude, and serving others, we can make a meaningful impact in our community and beyond. At Lakeview Christian Church, we are dedicated to living out our faith in ways that honor God and bless those around us. Join us in this journey of gratitude and transformation.
