*SPECIAL EDITION TO MARK MY BIRTHDAY* Message: "Be Grateful in All Situations" By M. S. Stephens Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Introduction: In the journey of life, we all face seasons of abundance and times of adversity. Gratitude often flows easily when all is well, but when trials arise, giving thanks can feel like an impossible task. Yet, the Apostle Paul, under divine inspiration, commands believers to give thanks in everything. This is not a suggestion but a revelation of God’s will for His people. Gratitude is not based on our circumstances but on the unchanging nature and goodness of God. "Be Grateful in All Situations" is a message that calls the brethren to recognize the spiritual strength and maturity that comes from a grateful heart. Gratitude is not denial of pain; rather, it is faith in the sovereignty of God despite the pain. Gratitude shifts our focus from problems to the Provider, from hardships to hope, and from self-pity to spiritual purpose. Basics of the Message: 1. Gratitude is God’s Will – (1 Thess. 5:18) 2. Gratitude is a lifestyle, not a seasonal activity – (Psalm 34:1) 3. Gratitude brings peace and guards our hearts – (Philippians 4:6–7) 4. Gratitude honors God and keeps us humble – (Psalm 50:23) Challenges to Being Grateful in All Situations: Pain and Suffering – Trials can cloud our perspective. Unanswered Prayers – Waiting on God may lead to frustration. Envy and Comparison – Looking at others’ successes can fuel ingratitude. Spiritual Weakness – Lack of trust in God’s plan weakens our gratitude. Materialism – Desiring more can diminish appreciation for what we have. Biblical Concepts Associated with the Topic: 1. Sovereignty of God – God is in control, even in hard times (Romans 8:28). 2. Faith and Trust – Being grateful is an act of trust in God's goodness. 3. Sacrifice of Praise – (Hebrews 13:15) Sometimes gratitude is a sacrifice. 4. Contentment – (1 Timothy 6:6) Godliness with contentment is great gain. 5. Transformation of the Mind – (Romans 12:2) Gratitude renews our thinking. Application: Begin each day with a thankful heart regardless of circumstances. Keep a gratitude journal to record God’s goodness daily. Practice gratitude in prayers even before receiving answers. Encourage others by sharing testimonies of God’s faithfulness. Replace complaints with praise and thanksgiving. Implications and Lessons to Be Learnt: A grateful heart is spiritually resilient and emotionally healthy. Gratitude in trials strengthens faith and spiritual maturity. Gratitude influences how we treat others—with kindness and compassion. Grateful believers shine as witnesses of God’s goodness. Ingratitude leads to spiritual stagnation and can open doors to bitterness. Call to Action: Today, choose gratitude. Reflect on God's blessings, even in difficulties. Acknowledge His sovereignty, and trust His timing. Let thanksgiving become your anthem, not only when things are going well but especially when you feel like giving up. Gratitude is a weapon—it silences the enemy and strengthens the soul. Conclusion: Gratitude in all situations doesn’t mean we enjoy every trial, but that we trust God through every trial. Our thanksgiving should not be rooted in temporal things but in eternal truths. God is good, faithful, loving, and wise. He works all things for our good. Let us, therefore, be a grateful people—living testimonies of His grace in every circumstance. Matching Baptist Hymn: Baptist Hymnal 385 – “Count Your Blessings” “Count your blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.” Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your unfailing love and mercy. Today, we ask for the grace to be grateful in all situations. Teach our hearts to trust You more, even when we don’t understand. Remove the spirit of complaining and replace it with praise. May our lives reflect Your faithfulness through our consistent gratitude. Help us to remember Your blessings and to encourage others through thankful living. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen. Take Home Questions: 1. What are some situations where you have found it difficult to be grateful? 2. How can remembering God’s sovereignty help you practice gratitude during trials? 3. What does it mean to offer a “sacrifice of praise” in your personal life? 4. In what ways can gratitude transform your relationships with others? 5. How can you build a daily habit of thanksgiving in your walk with God?