I like to be asked thought-provoking questions. However, in our busy lives it’s difficult to take time to still our minds and follow Paul’s simple instruction to Timothy, “Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching” (1 Tim. 4:16).
Jesus also instructed his disciples, “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down” (Luke 21:34).
Three Questions is a series designed to put forth a few questions once a month. They can be used for personal reflection or perhaps as a way to spur on meaningful conversation in an accountability or small group. November’s theme is gratitude.
November’s Theme: Gratitude
1. Why is gratitude an important quality in the Christian life? In what ways do you struggle to be thankful?
2. As you consider God, what are three aspects of his character that make you thankful?
3. What are three ways you can actively show gratitude to God today? What does it look like to live a life of thankfulness in your heart to God?
Verses for Further Consideration
Psalms 30:11–12 You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever!
Philippians 4:4–7 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Col. 3:15–16 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.
Col. 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
Romans 11:33–36 Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?” “Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.
