The cure for a bad attitude is gratitude. Paul knew this well and wrote to Timothy about it. Let's read what Paul wrote.
I thank Christ Jesus, Our Lord, who has strengthened me because He considered me faithful, putting me into service even though I was previously a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost. Yet for this reason I found mercy so that in me as the foremost sinner, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. 1 Timothy 1:12-17
 |
| The Cure for a Bad Attitude is Gratitude |
The Cure for a Bad Attitude is Gratitude
Paul was:
1. grateful for strength.
I thank Christ Jesus, Our Lord, who has strengthened me because He considered me faithful, putting me into service. 1 Timothy 1:12
In everything give thanks for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
This journal is available here.
Notice that Paul said he was grateful IN all circumstances, not FOR all circumstances.
God strengthened Paul to do His service.
Paul had the strength to walk through difficult times.
But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me so that through me the proclamation. might be fully accomplished and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was rescued out of the lion's mouth. 2 Timothy 4:17
2. grateful for mercy and grace.
Even though I was previously a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 1:13-14
Paul had been a blasphemer and a persecutor, yet he was shown mercy.
Mercy is when we don't get the punishment we do deserve.
Grace is when we get something good that we don't deserve - the unearned lavish love of God poured out on us.
3. grateful for God.
Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. 1 Timothy 1:17
God wants us to make room (margin space) for gratitude.
God wants us to:
- forgive others.
- let go of unmet expectations.
- let go of anger toward God.
God loves us deeply. He wants us to come back to Him.
Are you feeling grateful? Sing your gratitude. Write your gratitude.
If you struggle with gratitude, write down what you are grateful for daily.
Finally, give your gratitude daily to others.
Grateful people are giving people.
This post is taken from my personal Bible study notes written during my pastor's sermon. You are invited to watch that sermon in its entirety here.
 |
| The Cure for a Bad Attitude is Gratitude |
No comments:
Post a Comment
Add to the conversation! I want to hear from you. :)