Knowing God brings together two key reasons of the Christian faith. One: knowing about God and two: knowing God through a close relationship with Jesus Christ.
Philippians 4:10–20 describes how Christians can overcome worry and worldly desires, regardless of their circumstances. By making a purposeful decision to be content, a believer can trust God to provide our true needs, and not be consumed with materialism or anxiety. Paul has learned this skill through his many trials and ministry experiences.
Through our supernatural relationship with Jesus Christ, we can learn how to be content by being: Thankful to God for what you do have instead of focusing on what you don’t have. “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Give thanks no matter what happens. God wants you to thank him because you believe in Christ Jesus.” (It reads in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.) Be Grateful.
What is gratitude and why is it so important?
Gratitude is important because it helps us see a world that is much bigger than ourselves. When we have gratitude, we can help each other grow personally or in business. We can help those less fortunate because we see and appreciate how much we already have.
What are the benefits of being grateful?
There’s evidence of a long line of health-related benefits from being grateful. They include fewer physical symptoms, more time spent exercising, less physical pain, more sleep and increased sleep quality, lowered blood pressure, decreased feelings of depression, and an overall boost to vitality and energy. It generates positive feelings and reinforces good behavior. In the workplace, appreciation and recognition encourages others to aspire to greatness. Expressing and receiving thanks makes us feel good. In fact, psychology studies have shown that saying thank you has important health benefits.
How can I be grateful?
7 Ways To Be More Grateful:
- You Get What You Deserve and Need
- Choose To Be Grateful
- Look Around You
- Watch Your Language
- Count Your Blessings – Each Day
- Think Positive To Achieve Positive
- Look For Hidden Ways To Be Thankful!
Does gratitude really change our attitude?
Gratitude will change your attitude. As gratitude becomes a habit, it will become your predominant state of being. The more you radiate positive energy, the more you will attract positive experiences in your life. It really is as simple as that. Can you think of five things to be grateful for? I know my 5 reasons. I thank God, He woke me up, I am still breathing, I can move, I can talk and I can walk. I can think of many more things and people also that I am thankful for. I am really thankful for God, He is my neighbor that keeps me informed of which direction I need to go or stay and when to speak and not to speak. Being thankful all the time: Your Life, Your Unknown Future, The Roof Over Your Head, Sunrises and Sunsets, Your Health, Pets Eating Scraps Under the Table, The People Gathered Around the Table (and those far away), Delicious Food (especially seasonal favorites!)
{Let’s Read Philippians 4:10-20:}
I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
“Final Greetings:” Philippians 4:21-23: Greet all God’s people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
{Lets Pray}
Father God, I thank You and praise You that I can learn alot and speak about all that I learn in Christ. I thank You and praise You there is so much to learn from the epistles of Paul and the other apostles, even in the simple greetings at the beginning, and the gracious exhortations, urging, encouragement at the end. I believe that I may value all my brothers and sisters in Christ, even those who don’t know Jesus and delight to give and receive encouragement and support, as we ‘gossip all about the gospel’, rejoice in our salvation, and wait for the any-day return of our Lord Jesus Christ! I thank You, praise You and give You all the glory in Jesus Precious Name Amen.
{Power Verse}
The Lord is always good. He is always loving and kind, His faithfulness goes on and on to each succeeding generation. Psalm 100:5
"Only Life Changes" 