Group Notes | November 26

The Heart of Thanksgiving
November 26, 2017
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

Open:

Parents whose young child attempts “Thank you” (in childish language) for the first time—without being prompted—experience so much joy! Even as adults we are grateful when someone commends us for a job or attitude done well. Can you give an example, realizing we’re doing it, not for boasting, but to make a point?

We are just finishing the last hours of four days traditionally known in America as the “Thanksgiving holiday.” These days are usually filled with an abundance of food, family, and thankfulness for blessings of the past year. Possessing a grateful heart is one of the important characteristics of one who wants to be genuine as a Christ-follower. Paul gives us much guidance in the short book of Colossians, knowing if we set our mind to be more aware of, and thankful for, our blessings, we will pass on a joyous legacy.

Focal Passages: Colossians 3:12-17.

Discuss:

The Heart of Gratitude

Be Different

  1. Read verse 12. We often hear the word “intentional” used today. What are the characteristics that Paul encourages us to be “intentional” about, in this verse?
  2. What is the connection between the qualities listed in the verse (which might differ according to translation), and the trait of being thankful? The deeper question is, what is the foundation upon which being thankful is situated?
  3. What is the relationship between gratefulness and humility? Explain.

Be Caring

  1. Read verses 13-14. No one is perfect, including you! What list of sins could Jesus recite against you, if He wanted to? Have you asked for forgiveness? What is the analogy between being forgiven by Christ, and you forgiving those who antagonize you?
  2. In verse 14, another action is intentional; what is it? What are some ways you can “put on” love? Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a. Why in Col. 3:14 does Paul call love the “bond of perfection”? How is that linked with 1 Cor. 13:4-8a?
  3. Who does the world encourage you to put first? Why is that contrary to the Word of God?

Be Together

  1. Read verse 15. How do you attain God’s peace? How can you let it rule in your heart? Why is that important?
  2. Everyone has friends who do not know about or care about God. Why is it important to maintain most of your fellowship with believers? How are some ways you can love an unbeliever but not let them influence you?
  3. Why does Paul add “and be thankful” at the end of this verse? How does Peace and Thankfulness go together?

Be Consistent

  1. Read verse 16. As you look back at the previous four verses, how many of the actions that are addressed are “intentional”? What do the words “put on,” “let,” “do,” and “be” have in common?
  2. Read Ephesians 4:14-16. Why would the world want to take you down in your faith? What is the goal in verse 15? What is God’s purpose for us in 16b?

Close:

When was the last time you saw a two-year-old throw a fit when you tried to dress him? It is typical as they learn to express the desire to “do it myself!” We should be so adamant about appropriating the word of God, putting it on, taking it in, and teaching ourselves to be more and more aware of the reality of the characteristics until we do them as naturally as breathing. When your soul wells up in “Thank You!” to God, does that one time express your gratefulness? Certainly, it is good. But you can teach yourself, no matter your age, to remember to thank Him more than just one time when He has shown Himself involved in your needs. What has He done for you today? Did you say thank You? Yesterday? During the time when friends or family were gathered around a meal, did you have some time set aside when each one listed some of those things you are so very thankful Christ did for you this year?

Paul encourages us to incorporate gratefulness into our lives, so that no blessing comes our way without immediate thankfulness going up to God. Did you realize, in question 3, that thankfulness goes hand in hand with humility? Think of royalty, or movies where there are servants who labor long and hard to do their employer’s bidding. Are they used to hearing “thank you”? No. It was the expectation that the service would be done to please the one who hired them. Do you say thank you to your spouse for working all day, doing the jobs around the house, or keeping meals prepared? Begin with those small things that show you realize you don’t deserve all the time and effort made on your behalf; your children will see the “attitude of gratitude” and copy it. Soon it will become habitual, and you will carry it outside your walls into the world—and show them the difference as a true Christ-follower!

Key Verse: Colossians 3:17: And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. (NKJV)