I. Introduction
Express gratitude for Thanksgiving celebration last week.
Thank Pastor Sebastian and Kelly, acknowledge music contributors, and appreciate the autoharp performance by Sister Kay.
Reflect on the joy and thankfulness during the Thanksgiving celebration.
II. Theme: Thanksgiving and a Grateful Heart
Emphasize the importance of having a grateful heart.
Discuss the biblical perspective on praising God in all circumstances, even in challenging situations.
Reference Psalms that highlight entering God's gates with Thanksgiving.
III. Biblical Characters and Thanksgiving
Explore four Bible characters and their experiences of Thanksgiving and worship.
King David (Psalm 116)
Acknowledge trials and difficulties.
Emphasize God's compassion and deliverance.
Discuss David's commitment to praising God.
Daniel (Daniel 2)
Outline the challenging situation with Nebuchadnezzar's dream.
Highlight Daniel's faith in God's wisdom and his praise in difficult circumstances.
Emphasize God's intervention and the fulfillment of the dream.
Paul and Silas (Acts 16)
Describe the imprisonment and beating.
Discuss the surprising response of Paul and Silas: praying and singing hymns.
Emphasize the miraculous intervention with the earthquake.
The Samaritan Leper (Luke 17)
Narrate the story of the ten lepers seeking healing.
Focus on the gratitude of the Samaritan leper who returned to thank Jesus.
Discuss the importance of gratitude in receiving blessings.
IV. Biblical Encouragement for Thanksgiving
Share Bible verses encouraging gratitude and thanksgiving.
Highlight Paul's teachings on giving thanks in various circumstances (Ephesians, Colossians, Thessalonians, Philippians).
V. Conclusion and Prayer
Summarize key points about gratitude and Thanksgiving.
Encourage the congregation to cultivate a thankful heart.
End with a prayer for blessings and gratitude in the lives of the congregation.