Gratitude Unleashed: Transformed by Truth Psalm 118:28
Introduction:
Today we gather to explore the transformative power of truth found in Psalm 118:28. This psalm resonates with the theme of gratitude—a powerful force that has the potential to bring about transformation in our lives. As we delve into the scripture, may our hearts be opened to the truth that leads to a life marked by gratitude.
Point 1: Acknowledging God's Righteousness
Psalm 118:28 (NLT) "You are my God, and I will praise you! You are my God, and I will exalt you!"
This declaration from the psalmist expresses a profound acknowledgment of God's righteousness. Gratitude begins with recognising God as the source of all goodness and giving Him the praise He deserves.
The repetition of "You are my God" underscores a personal and intimate relationship with the Lord. The praise and exaltation emanate from a deep conviction of God's righteousness.
Corrie ten Boom emphasises the importance of acknowledging God's sovereignty, saying, "Hold everything in your hands lightly, otherwise it hurts when God pries your fingers open."
Psalm 145:17 (NLT) "The Lord is righteous in everything he does; he is filled with kindness."
Point 2: Gratitude as a Transformative Attitude
Psalm 118:24 (NLT) "This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it."
Gratitude is not just a response to favorable circumstances; it's a transformative attitude that shapes how we approach each day. The psalmist's commitment to rejoice and be glad reflects a heart transformed by gratitude.
The affirmation that "the Lord has made" the day highlights a perspective shift. Gratitude transforms our outlook, enabling us to see each day as a gift from God.
Melody Beattie beautifully captures the essence of gratitude, stating, "Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow."
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NLT) "Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus."
Point 3: Overflowing Thankfulness in Christ
Colossians 2:6-7 (NLT) "And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness."
The connection between gratitude and our relationship with Christ is evident. Gratitude flows naturally from a heart deeply rooted in Christ and built on the foundation of His truth.
The metaphor of roots growing down into Christ emphasizes the need for a strong foundation. Gratitude becomes a natural overflow when our lives are firmly anchored in Him.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer reflects on the transformative power of following Christ, stating, "The only way to follow Jesus is by taking the way he took, by entering into his death—baptism into his death."
Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT) "Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done."
Conclusion:
In conclusion, my dear friends, may our hearts resonate with the psalmist's declaration in Psalm 118:28. As we acknowledge God's righteousness, cultivate a transformative attitude of gratitude, and allow our lives to overflow with thankfulness in Christ, we position ourselves for a profound transformation.
Application:
Take a moment to reflect on one specific aspect of your life for which you are grateful. Express that gratitude to God in prayer, acknowledging His goodness.
Call to Action:
Commit to incorporating a daily practice of gratitude into your life. Whether through journaling or intentional prayers of thanksgiving, let gratitude become a cornerstone of your walk with Christ.
May the truth found in Psalm 118:28 lead us to lives marked by gratitude, transforming our hearts and minds. Amen.
