Gratitude Gives You Eyes to See (Philippians

Paul wrote the book of Philippians from prison. How would you feel if you were imprisoned
unjustly? Paul actually expressed gratitude for his imprisonment. This attitude of gratitude
helped him to see the good things God was doing through his circumstances. If Paul was
angry and bitter about his situation, he might not have seen that his persecution was able to
help “advance the gospel.” When we decide to give thanks in all circumstances, it opens our
eyes to the good things God is doing all around.
SPEAKER:
Wes McAdams, Preaching Minister (www.ccmcdermot...)
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PRIMARY TEXT FOR THIS MESSAGE:
12 I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, 13 so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. 14 And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
15 Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. 16 The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice.
(Philippians 1:12-18, ESV)
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The following summary and the subtitles for this video were auto-generated and may contain errors or inaccuracies. Please refer to the video for the most accurate representation.
Main Theme/Big Idea:
Gratitude is a discipline that transcends circumstances, allowing us to see God’s work even in hardship. Paul’s example in prison shows us that gratitude isn’t merely a feeling-it’s an act of faith. This sermon challenges us to cultivate a lifestyle of gratitude, trusting that God is doing good, even when we can’t yet perceive it.
Key Points:
Gratitude as a Discipline and an Act of Faith:
Gratitude is more than a spontaneous feeling; it is a choice and a commitment to acknowledge God’s goodness, regardless of our circumstances. This perspective strengthens our faith as we practice gratitude, believing that God’s work is ongoing, even if hidden from us.
Giving Thanks in All Circumstances:
Paul calls us to “give thanks in all circumstances,” knowing that God’s goodness is not limited by our perception. Even in painful and challenging times, gratitude becomes a way to align with God’s will, trusting that He is working all things for His purposes.
Seeing Beyond the Present Pain:
Paul’s imprisonment serves as an example of how God can bring good from painful situations. Even when people acted against him, Paul could rejoice, seeing that God was advancing the gospel through his suffering. This teaches us that God’s ability to do good surpasses our understanding.
Application:
Commit to the discipline of gratitude daily, regardless of emotions or circumstances, trusting that God is at work even in unseen ways.
Practice “thanks-living” by focusing on God’s goodness and thanking Him for the good He is doing-even when it is not immediately evident.
View challenging circumstances as opportunities to deepen trust in God’s unwavering goodness, believing that He can bring purpose from any situation.
Memorable Quote:
"Gratitude is an act of faith; it says, ‘God, I thank you, even when I can’t see the good, because I know you are always doing good.’"​
Closing Thought/Call to Action:
Living a life of gratitude is a journey of faith that requires commitment and trust in God’s unchanging character. This week, let’s embrace the discipline of gratitude by thanking God for His goodness, even in challenging situations. As we trust and express gratitude, we align our hearts with God’s purposes, growing in faith and strength.

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