Where Are the Nine? Luke 17:11-19 Developing An Attitude of Gratitude

Thankfulness in the New Testament Thankfulness is commanded (Eph. 5:20; Phil. 4:8; Col. 3:15,17; 1 Thess. 5:18; 2 Tim. 2:1) But, why is it commanded? What good will it do for us? (Psa. 92:1) Is thankfulness merely a social courtesy, or is their more to it?

Lessons from the Lepers Luke 17:11-19 Lessons from the nine… The lepers were quick to ask for help, but not to say “thank you” How common ingratitude really is, nine out of ten were ungrateful The ungrateful ones did not receive the greater blessing, only one did

Lessons from the Lepers Luke 17:11-19 Lessons from the one… He saw that he was healed – consideration He turned back – appreciation He glorified God – reverence He feel upon his face – humility He gave thanks – gratitude He exercised his faith – blessed

What Thankfulness Will Do For You Faithfulness – thankful people are faithful to God (Rom. 1:21-25; 2 Tim. 3:1-5; Deut. 8:11) Stewardship – thankful people take care of what they have (1 Cor. 15:10-11; 1 Tim. 1:12ff) Purity – thankful people use their tongue to speak what is good (Eph. 5:4)

What Thankfulness Will Do For You Positive Attitude – thankful people avoid a “down-in-the-dumps” disposition (Phil. 4:4-7; 1 Thess. 3:9) Attractive – thankful people attract others by putting on Christ (Col. 3:10-17) Honor – thankful people honor the Great God (Rev. 4:9; 7:12; 11:17; Psa. 50:23)

Four Barriers to Thankfulness 1. Thoughtlessness – many don’t consider what God has done for them (Psa. 103:2) 2. Worldliness – many walk by their own human reason rather than obeying God (Rom. 1:21) 3. Discontent – many are not happy with what they have / get (Phil. 4:11ff; Heb. 13:5-6) 4. Selfishness – many are simply looking out for their own interests

Where Are the Nine? The “nine” are in the home, in the church, in society, everywhere It is good to thank Jehovah because our soul’s salvation depends upon it