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Choices that Matter The First Thanksgiving Can we be honest enough to admit that we as 21st century Americans know in our heads that we should be the most grateful people ever but may actually be the least grateful? It is one of the great ironies of our current existence—we who have so many reasons to be grateful will struggle with gratitude not just this Thanksgiving holiday, but in life. However, when we choose gratitude over complaining, we choose the fullness of life God desires for us. GET THINGS STARTED What are things you find yourself complaining about in this season of life? What complaints continue to rise to the surface over time? Why is it so much easier to complain than to give thanks? GO DEEPER 1.

Read Philippians 2:14-15. What are the promises found in this passage when we “do everything without complaining?”

2.

Read 1 Thessalonians 5:18. Isn’t it interesting that a lot of times we give thanks simply because of the circumstances we are in? As Paul writes, we are to “give thanks IN all circumstances” not for our circumstances but actually in our circumstances…”for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” What makes it difficult to give thanks in all circumstances?

MAKE IT PERSONAL 1.

Gratitude is life-giving. Even social scientists are discovering what God already told us, that gratitude has positive affects on life. In what instances have you felt significant change in your heart, mind, or even body when you expressed and/or walked in gratitude?

2.

If things or circumstances in life are worth complaining about, then the better response is intercession. The better choice is to pray. (Read Philippians 4:6-7) What are things in your life that you want to stop complaining about and start interceding for? (Take note of these to pray for during the prayer time)

3.

We fight the fight of complaining by practicing gratitude. Take time to write out words of thankfulness individually, and if you want, share those words of gratefulness with the group. (Allow time for individuals to write or type out words of gratitude for who God is, and what He has done in their lives before sharing)

PRACTICE IT NOW Take time as a group to intentionally pray for the areas of life identified by group members that need prayer and intercession. Speak truth, hope, and God’s promises into those areas through prayer. Also, take time to once again give thanks to God for who He is, how He has moved in our lives, and how He will continue to move.

CONNECT WITH GOD’S PEOPLE. VISIT WWW.BELTWAY.ORG/GROUPS.