Discussion Guide | Nov. 24, 2024

This week's sermon emphasizes the importance of gratitude, especially as we approach Thanksgiving. Pastor Bill highlights how being thankful to God can transform our lives, making us healthier, happier, and more connected to others. The sermon draws on biblical examples, such as David and the ten lepers, to illustrate how gratitude can change our perspective and bring us closer to God. It challenges us to be like the one leper who returned to thank Jesus, rather than the nine who did not, and to bring God's presence into our gatherings through heartfelt prayer and thanksgiving.

Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, asking for Your presence to fill our gathering today. Open our hearts and minds to receive what You have for us, and help us to be truly thankful for Your faithfulness and love. Amen.

What is one thing you are thankful for this week?

1. What does it mean to you to be thankful to God?
2. How can gratitude change our perspective on difficult situations?
3. Why do you think only one leper returned to thank Jesus?
4. In what ways can we bring God's presence into our family gatherings?
5. How can we cultivate a habit of gratitude in our daily lives?
6. What are some practical ways to express gratitude to others?
7. How does being thankful impact our relationships with others?
8. What can we learn from David's example of gratitude in the Psalms?

This week, make a conscious effort to express gratitude to God and to those around you. Consider writing a thank-you note or verbally expressing appreciation to someone who has impacted your life.

1. Gratitude to God is life-changing and brings His presence into our lives.

2. Being thankful can improve our physical, emotional, and relational health.

3. David's example in the Psalms shows us how to worship God in all circumstances.

4. Expressing gratitude can change the atmosphere of our gatherings.

5. God perceives and values our individual stories and circumstances.

Lord, we thank You for the time we've spent together today. Help us to carry a spirit of gratitude into our daily lives and to recognize Your presence in every situation. May we be like the one leper who returned to give thanks, and may our lives be a testament to Your goodness and faithfulness. Amen.