Thanksgiving Sunday

Preacher: Stephen Scott

Worship:
Reflect on the song “Gratitude” – by Brandon Lake. As you meditate on the lyrics as we take time out to give thanks to God for who He is.

Check-in:
Share with the group what you are thankful for to God as this year draws to a close.

Synopsis of message:
Sunday was Thanksgiving Sunday, Stephen Scott shared God’s word with us. Titled “Permeated Praise”. Many of us think that praise and thanksgiving are the same, but it’s not. The one draws our attention to the goodness and greatness of God. The other is our response to God’s goodness and greatness – Psalm 100:4. Sometimes we can’t see what God is doing, but we can still praise him for who he is.

Stephen unpacked Acts 16:25-26. We see Paul and Silas praising God in prison. After being beaten and flogged, they still choose to praise God. The earth shook and prison gates flew open, prisoners were set free. What can we learn from this?

1. Praise is not seasonal: Hebrews 13:8 – Our praise shouldn’t be based on what God does. Paul’s situation was bad, but still he praised God.
2. Praise requires a sacrifice: Hebrews 13:15 – Even amidst experiencing loss and sadness, God deserves praise. It’s not about us. If my heart isn’t full of praise, then it’s full of pride.
3. Praise has supernatural power: Psalm 22:3 – God inhabits the praises of His people. God’s presence occupied Paul and Silas’ praises. 2 Corinthians 3:17 Their praises permeated the power that brought freedom to the prisoners.

Into what spaces are our praises permeating the presence of God?

HOW TO BECOME A PEOPLE OF PRAISE:

1. Submit our thoughts: Our attention is not always on the goodness of God. 2 Corinthians 10:5, Philippians 4:8
2. Permit your heart: Give yourself permission to praise, you may need to command your soul. Psalm 103:1
3. Persist in praise: Praising the Lord at all times. In the best and worst of times. Psalm 34:1, Hebrews 13:5

Discussion questions:

1. In what areas of your life do you struggle to praise God? How can you change your perspective to focus on God’s goodness?
2. How do you think the act of praising God in difficult situations, like Paul and Silas, can impact our lives and the lives of those around us?
3. What can you do this week to make praise part of your daily routine, regardless of your circumstances?
4. What creative life-giving ways are there for your group to incorporate celebration and thanksgiving into your group?

Additional resources:

• Thankfulness in times of uncertainty (YouVersion)
• The power of thanksgiving (YouVersion)
• Get your praise on (YouVersion)