Date: November 11, 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 Role of Gratitude in Our Relationship with God.”

Gratitude is a profound bridge between our hearts and God’s presence, transforming our relationship with Him into a vibrant tapestry of appreciation and love. In Jesus’ teachings, thankfulness is woven into the very fabric of daily life. Ephesians 5:20 reminds us to “Give thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” When we cultivate an attitude of gratitude, our hearts open to recognizing the countless blessings God bestows upon us, even in life’s simplest moments. James 1:17a tells us, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above…” This awareness deepens our connection with Him, allowing us to experience His grace, which enriches our spiritual journey.

As we face everyday challenges, gratitude emerges as a powerful spiritual and emotional restoration tool. In times when our faith may waver, reflecting on our blessings illuminates the path ahead. Jesus made house calls to the weary and afflicted, reminding us of His constant presence as a source of hope and healing. “O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever” (Psalms 136:1). Embracing thankfulness shifts our focus from struggles to the divine interventions that sustain us, fostering a resilience that roots us in faith.

In closing, prayer becomes inherently intertwined with gratitude, creating a sacred practice that strengthens our relationship with God. Ephesians 1:16 encourages us to “Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers.” Approaching Him with a heart full of thankfulness transforms our prayers into a dialogue of love and recognition rather than a mere list of requests. This shift invites us to celebrate God’s goodness, deepening our intimacy with Him. In these moments of connection, we find ourselves transformed, growing in faith and understanding as we acknowledge His role in our lives. “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Colossians 3:17). Saints, joyous or sorrowful in every circumstance, we can find reasons to be thankful.

 Remember, “with God, all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26b).

In His Service,

Bishop Dr. Calvin Worthem        

General Chief Overseer/Senior Bishop