Introduction

Gratitude is a spiritual force that empowers you to reach higher levels in life. Without gratitude, it is difficult to experience positive change. In the story of Jesus healing ten lepers, only one returned to express gratitude. This act caught Jesus' attention, highlighting the importance of appreciation. Psalm 92:1-3 emphasizes the goodness of giving thanks to God.

The Purpose of Appreciation

Appreciation serves several purposes in our lives. Firstly, it is a commandment from God to give thanks in all situations (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Secondly, it acknowledges that every blessing we enjoy comes from God (James 1:17). Thirdly, it recognizes that these blessings are not achieved through our own efforts alone (John 3:27). Fourthly, appreciation demonstrates our value for God's blessings and opens the door for more blessings (1 Samuel 17:37). Lastly, it fulfills the scriptural requirement of making our requests known to God (Philippians 4:6-7).

Failure to give thanks and appreciate God has negative effects on our lives. It opens the door for the enemy to attack (Deuteronomy 28:47-48), attracts curses instead of blessings (Malachi 2:1-3), and can lead to destruction due to pride (Acts 12:21-23). Many people suffer because they fail to give glory to God or express gratitude for their blessings, regardless of their size.

The Patterns of Appreciation

Appreciation and thanksgiving have two main aspects. Firstly, we must thank God for His blessings and give Him all the glory for what He has done. Secondly, we should express gratitude towards the people God has used to bring blessings into our lives. We should never take these individuals for granted but appreciate their roles in our lives. A heart of gratitude and appreciation does not hold onto offenses or seek revenge.

Certain attitudes and behaviors hinder our ability to show appreciation and should be avoided. Covetousness, murmuring, pride, and comparing ourselves to others all prevent us from expressing gratitude. These attitudes blind us to the reasons why we should thank God and appreciate the people He has placed in our lives.

The Power of Appreciation

Showing appreciation and giving thanks is powerful. It opens the door for fresh grace in our lives (Psalm 89:20-24). It turns our battles over to God, allowing Him to fight on our behalf (2 Chronicles 20:22-24). Appreciation also serves as a platform for greater blessings, multiplying the blessings we already have (John 6:6-13). It sustains our confidence in God and His power, enabling us to remain steadfast in challenging situations (Psalm 92:13). Additionally, appreciation authenticates our miracles and blessings, solidifying their presence in our lives.

Conclusion

As believers, we must always strive to show appreciation to God. Our existence on earth is not due to our own abilities or achievements but is solely because of God's grace and mercy. Our expression of gratitude should be spontaneous and unconditional. A heart filled with gratitude and appreciation is a catalyst for God to release greater blessings and favor in our lives. When we consistently give thanks to God, our lives will never lose value (Psalm 92:14).

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