The Attitude of Gratitude

Philippians 4:4-7

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again – rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

Gratitude changes our attitude toward:

1 – Our circumstances

Philippians 4:4; always rejoice, not just when things seem good and favorable or you feel like it
This point is repeated and emphasized, so it is very important to pay attention to
Have joy despite your circumstances; it doesn’t mean you won’t experience other feelings like sorrow, fear, or doubt, but those shouldn’t be in the driver’s seat
To rejoice means to have joy and delight when you think of Jesus
Gratitude may not change our circumstances, but it’ll change our attitude

2 – Other people

Philippians 4:5 “Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do.”
People can steal our joy; when you’re frustrated with someone, remember all the things you’re grateful for about that person
Don’t let seeds of division take root in your heart
Ephesians 4:2-3 “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.”
We all have faults and make mistakes but we can choose to have gratitude, to give grace, to be patient, and to give honor regardless of our feelings

3 – Dependence on God

Philippians 4:6; prayer is an opportunity to seek God, ask for what we need and express gratitude
It changes your heart and attitude when you pray and it brings peace into your world
Gratitude doesn’t change God but it changes our attitude and dependence toward God
Always remember that God is your source

4 – Ourselves

Philippians 4:7 “His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
There’s a battle for our hearts and minds and yet there’s always so much to be grateful for; look for those reasons to have a heart of gratitude about who God created you to be