Date: November 4, 2024

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, power, and dominion forever and ever, and to the Holy Ghost, who continues to dwell within us, guiding our steps. This month’s theme is thankfulness, and this week’s message is “The Gift of Thankfulness: Understanding Thankfulness as a Spiritual Discipline.”

Thankfulness is more than a fleeting emotion; it is a profound spiritual discipline that invites us into a deeper relationship with God: “In everything, give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you”-1 Thessalonians 5:18. When we embrace thankfulness, we acknowledge the presence of Jesus in our lives, much like his house calls to those in need throughout the Gospels. Each act of gratitude becomes a doorway to recognizing the blessings we often overlook, allowing us to experience God’s grace fully. This discipline teaches us to see beyond our immediate circumstances and appreciate the divine fingerprints in our daily lives, nurturing our spiritual growth and understanding.

Jesus taught us to notice the small things, reminding us that even a tiny gesture in His name carries significance. Ephesians 5:20 says, “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Hence, reflecting on what we are grateful for creates space for God’s healing presence to enter our lives. This practice enables us to confront our challenges with hope, reminding us that there is much to be thankful for, even in suffering. Through this lens of gratitude, we can experience restoration and peace.

In closing, the power of prayer is magnified when infused with thankfulness. As we approach God in prayer, expressing gratitude can transform our conversations with Him into profound acts of worship. Jesus’ teachings often emphasized the importance of thankfulness, as seen in feeding the five thousand and healing the ten lepers. These stories remind us that gratitude is not just a reaction to blessings received but a posture of the heart that aligns us with God’s will. Engaging in prayer with a thankful spirit encourages us to trust in God’s provision, cultivating a sense of peace that surpasses understanding amidst life’s uncertainties. 2 Corinthians 9:15 says, “Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.”  The reflective practice nurtures our relationship with God and serves as a reminder during challenging times this holiday season. Even in our darkest hours, there are reasons to be thankful. When we understand that thankfulness is a spiritual discipline, we align ourselves with God’s heart, fostering a life marked by joy, hope, and unwavering faith. 

During the challenges we encounter every day, remember that “with God, all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).

In His Service,

Bishop Dr. Calvin Worthem        

General Chief Overseer/Senior Bishop