Gratitude Strengthens Your Relationships (Philippians 1:3-11)

Every Christian should be grateful for their church family. Not just grateful in their heart, but verbally express their gratitude to their brothers and sisters, and to God. Just as importantly, every Christian should demonstrate their gratitude towards their church family. Even when we’re frustrated with our church family-perhaps, especially when we’re frustrated-we should express, demonstrate, and practice gratitude. This sort of gratitude helps to cement and strengthen our relationships with one another.
SPEAKER:
Wes McAdams, Preaching Minister (www.ccmcdermot...)
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The church of Christ on McDermott Road is located at 3600 McDermott Road in Plano, Texas. Wherever you are on your journey of faith, we would love to connect with you online or in person.
Visit our website to learn more (www.ccmcdermot...).
PRIMARY TEXT FOR THIS MESSAGE:
3 I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. 7 It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. 8 For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. 9 And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, 10 so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
(Philippians 1:3-11, 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 more than a feeling-it is a discipline we cultivate, even when life is difficult. Paul’s letter to the Philippians teaches us to practice gratitude by giving thanks for each other and finding joy in God’s ongoing work in our lives. Through intentional gratitude, we strengthen our relationships and deepen our joy in the Lord.
Key Points:
Gratitude as a Discipline, Not Just a Feeling:
Paul demonstrates how gratitude goes beyond mere feelings; it’s a practice we can choose even when life is challenging. His thanksgiving while imprisoned shows that gratitude is not dependent on circumstances but is a commitment to thank God for His work and for the people in our lives.
Praying with Gratitude for All:
Paul prays gratefully, constantly, and joyfully for the Philippians, even for those who may be in conflict, like Euodia and Syntyche. His example encourages us to give thanks for others, especially those who challenge us, as a way of nurturing our relationships.
Gratitude Focused on God’s Work in Others:
Paul is thankful for the Philippians because he sees God’s work in them. Recognizing that we and those around us are “works in progress” can deepen our gratitude and patience, allowing us to appreciate each other’s growth and transformation in Christ.
Application:
Embrace gratitude as a daily practice, even during tough times, by focusing on God’s goodness and the people He has placed in our lives.
Pray with thankfulness for all people, including those we find challenging, to strengthen our relationships and build a spirit of unity.
Keep our eyes on God’s ongoing work in each person, remembering that He will bring His work in us to completion, cultivating patience and joy in our relationships.
Memorable Quote:
"Being grateful for them-whoever 'them' may be-will strengthen your relationship with them."​
Closing Thought/Call to Action:
As we embrace gratitude as a discipline, we become more Christlike, learning to love others and celebrate God’s work in them. This week’s challenge invites us to pray with thanksgiving for both easy and difficult relationships, committing to show tangible gratitude. Just as Christ loved us even when we were unlovable, we are called to extend His love and gratitude to those around us, building up the body of Christ and sharing in His joy.