Appreciation

APPRECIATION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 17:11–19

Supporting Texts: Psalm 100:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:18; Colossians 3:15-17; Philippians 4:6; Hebrews 13:15

INTRODUCTION:

Appreciation is a vital Christian virtue that reflects our understanding of God's goodness and our recognition of His blessings. Many believers receive divine benefits daily but fail to return to express gratitude. This Bible study focuses on the value, power, and practice of appreciation.

In Luke 17:11–19, we see ten lepers healed by Jesus, but only one returned to give thanks. Jesus acknowledged the act of gratitude and questioned the absence of the others. This reveals God's expectation for appreciation and the reward attached to it.

Appreciation is not a suggestion; it is a command in Scripture. It reflects humility, reverence, and faith. Through this study, we will learn how to develop a heart of gratitude and how appreciation deepens our relationship with God and others.

1. THE MEANING AND POWER OF APPRECIATION

Appreciation is a deliberate expression of gratitude and value for what one has received from God or others.

a) Definition of Appreciation

Appreciation means recognising and expressing thankfulness for benefits received, acknowledging both the giver and the gift.

b) Appreciation is an act of faith

It shows we believe God is the source of all blessings (James 1:17).

c) It honours God and invites His presence

Psalm 100:4 – “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise.”

d) Appreciation opens the door to more blessings

Gratitude positions us for greater favour, as seen in the life of the grateful leper.

Biblical Example:

The one leper who returned was made whole, not just healed. His appreciation led to a complete restoration (Luke 17:19).

2. APPRECIATION REVEALS A HUMBLE HEART

True appreciation is born from a heart that acknowledges its dependence on God.

a) Gratitude reflects humility

It means we do not take God's blessings for granted (1 Corinthians 4:7).

b) It shows we remember the source of our help

Deuteronomy 8:18 – “But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God...”

c) Proud people find it hard to say ‘thank you’

Nebuchadnezzar took glory for himself and was humbled (Daniel 4:30–32).

d) A humble heart gives credit to God always

Psalm 115:1 – “Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory...”

Biblical Example:

David, though a king, constantly acknowledged God's help and expressed thanksgiving (Psalm 103:1–5).

3. APPRECIATION DEEPENS RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

Gratitude builds intimacy and helps us stay connected to God’s presence.

a) Thankful hearts remain close to God

Those who appreciate God’s acts remember His ways (Psalm 103:7).

b) Appreciation sustains answered prayers

Philippians 4:6 – Thanksgiving must accompany every request to God.

c) It transforms prayer into worship

We move beyond asking to simply honouring God for who He is.

d) Appreciation brings inner peace and joy

Colossians 3:15 – “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts... and be ye thankful.”

Biblical Example:

Paul and Silas praised and thanked God in prison, and their worship brought deliverance (Acts 16:25–26).

4. APPRECIATION IN DAILY CHRISTIAN LIVING

Gratitude should not be seasonal; it should be a daily lifestyle.

a) Be thankful in all circumstances

1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “In everything give thanks...”

b) Develop the habit of thanksgiving

Regularly write or declare things you are grateful for.

c) Teach children and disciples to be thankful

It shapes character and spiritual growth.

d) Thank God even in trials

Romans 8:28 assures us that God works all things for good.

Biblical Example:

Job, despite his losses, fell down and worshipped God, saying, “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away...” (Job 1:21).

CONCLUSION:

Appreciation is more than just words; it is a posture of the heart. When we thank God, we not only acknowledge His goodness but we also grow in humility, peace, and spiritual maturity.

Let us not be like the nine who forgot to return but like the one who honoured Jesus with his gratitude. Develop a life of appreciation, and you will walk in continuous favour and fellowship with God.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, give me a heart that remembers Your goodness always.

2. I break free from the spirit of ingratitude in Jesus' name.

3. Father, help me to appreciate You daily, even in small things.

4. Let thanksgiving become my lifestyle and not just a reaction.

5. Lord, may my appreciation open greater doors of blessings.