Thank for a Change

When we talk about being thankful, we often think about Thanksgiving.  What are some of your favorite Thanksgiving traditions?  What is the worst food your family serves at Thanksgiving?

Discuss

In your own words, what does it mean to have an attitude of gratitude (to be a thankful person)?

What is the opposite of being thankful? (Don’t say unthankful).

On Wednesday PJ said, “unexpressed thankfulness is a form of rejection.”

• What do you think this means?
• Have you ever felt like someone didn’t appreciate something you did?
• Have you ever considered how your family might feel if you don’t express thankfulness for the things they do?

How can choosing to express thankfulness change your heart towards other people?

The Bible

give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. -1 Thessalonians 5:18

 Why is giving thanks in “all circumstances” difficult?

How can finding something to be thankful for, no matter how bad the circumstance, be beneficial?

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7

How can you pray with thanksgiving?  Why is it important?

Make it personal

Is there something going on in your life right now that makes it hard for you to be thankful?

What are some things people in your family do that you might take for granted and not be thankful for?

The challenges

#1 – Thank ever person in your family for something every day for a week.

Has this been difficult for you? Discuss

#2 – Write down something you are thankful to God for each day.

Share with your group two things you are thankful to God for.  (Try to be personal)