Living Gratefully

Discover how embracing gratitude can transform your life in this special Thanksgiving episode of the Living IN Jesus podcast. Hosts Ross O'Hair and Ben Brezina delve into the profound impact of thankfulness on our relationship with God, our community, and our personal well-being. They share biblical insights, personal experiences, and practical tips on how to cultivate a heart of gratitude—even amidst hardship. By listening, you'll gain a deeper understanding of why giving thanks is essential, how it can lead to inner peace and joy, and how it strengthens the bonds with those around you. This episode is an invitation to experience the transformative power of thankfulness and to make it a daily practice that enriches every aspect of your life.

Key Verses:

Psalm 28:7 – “The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.”

1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Colossians 3:15 – “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”

Quotes:

• “Thankfulness completes the love loop—God gives, we recognize, and we give thanks, drawing us closer to Him.”
• “You can’t fully grasp what God has done for us and not feel overwhelmed with gratitude. It’s the natural response to His love.” 
• “Gratitude isn’t just a choice; it’s the pathway to peace, joy, and contentment, no matter the circumstances.”

Key Points:

1. Giving thanks daily draws us closer to God and helps us acknowledge His goodness and provision.
2. Gratitude strengthens community by fostering encouragement, kindness, and unity.
3. Practicing thankfulness shifts our perspective from lack to abundance, bringing inner peace and joy.

Outline:

1. Thanksgiving: More Than a Holiday (00:01)
2. Gratitude is in God’s Blueprint (02:07)
3. The Love Loop: Receiving and Returning Thanks (03:26)
4. Psalm 28:7: The Anthem of a Thankful Heart (03:57)
5. Grumbling vs. Gratitude: Lessons from the Wilderness (04:30)
6. Building Bridges with Thankfulness (06:59)
7. The Gratitude Effect: Health, Joy, and Peace (10:44)
8. Finding Thanks in the Trials (14:59)
9. Simple Steps to Embracing Gratitude (16:49)
10. Gratitude in Action: A Challenge to You (18:40)

Theme Music:

Here Forever by Adigold
(all rights and licensing from Envato elements)

Hosted by: Ross O'Hair
Participating Staff: Ben Brezina
Edited by: Ross O’Hair and Ben Brezina

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