Gratitude as Worship November 24, 2024 86,400 seconds in a day. What if gratitude isn’t just a response to good times, but a way to worship in every moment? “16Rejoice always, 17pray constantly, 18give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (CSB) Gratitude doesn’t change what’s around you; it changes what’s within you. Gratitude isn’t just something we express—it’s an act of worship that draws us closer to God. Principle 1: Gratitude Is a Posture of Praise “Rejoice always … ” 1 Thessalonians 5:16 (CSB) Worship flows from a joyful heart, and gratitude is the engine that fuels joy. “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.” Psalms 100:4 (CSB) Gratitude shifts our focus from the gift to the Giver. Principle 2: Gratitude Is a Language of Prayer “ … pray constantly … ” 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (CSB) Every prayer is an opportunity to worship through thanksgiving. Gratitude is the gateway to God’s peace. When you turn your worries into prayers, your gratitude will grow. Principle 3: Gratitude Is a Choice in Every Circumstance “ … give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (CSB) Gratitude isn’t seasonal or situational; it’s intentional. Worship happens when we thank Him not just after the breakthrough but during the battle. “25About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. 26Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the jail were shaken, and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s chains came loose.” Acts 16:25-26 (CSB) Principle 4: Gratitude Turns Blessings into Testimonies “15But one of them, seeing that he was healed, returned and, with a loud voice, gave glory to God. 16He fell facedown at His feet, thanking Him. And he was a Samaritan. 17Then Jesus said, ‘Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? 18Didn’t any return to give glory to God except this foreigner?’ 19And He told him, ‘Get up and go on your way. Your faith has saved you.’” Luke 17:15-19 (CSB) “Whatever you don’t turn into praise turns into pride.” - Mark Batterson Gratitude begins where entitlement ends. When we give thanks out loud, we echo the worship of heaven. Gratitude isn’t reactive, it’s proactive. Start a Gratitude Journal: Every morning or night, write down three things you’re thankful for. Flip Complaints into Praise: When tempted to grumble, find a reason to thank God instead. Share the Gratitude: Tell one person this week how they’ve impacted your life and thank them. Gratitude isn’t just a response to blessings—it’s the rhythm of a worshipful life.