Bible Study: A Life of Thanksgiving
(November Study Fellowship)
Opening Prayer
Generous God,
You are the giver of every blessing.
Teach us to live with grateful hearts,
to notice Your goodness in ordinary things,
and to give thanks in every circumstance.
Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Scripture Focus
1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 — “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Colossians 3:15–17 — “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… And be thankful.”
Psalm 100:4–5 — “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever.”
Introduction
Thanksgiving is more than a polite “thank you” at the right moment. In Scripture, it is a way of life—a continual recognition of God’s goodness, even in the midst of life’s challenges.
Gratitude changes how we see the world. It shifts our focus from what we lack to what God has already given. A thankful heart makes space for joy, strengthens our faith, and draws us closer to the One who provides every good gift.
Discussion Questions
What do you most often give thanks for—and why?
1 Thessalonians 5:18 says we should give thanks “in all circumstances.” What might that look like when times are hard?
How does practising thanksgiving change the way you pray?
Read Colossians 3:17. How could gratitude shape not only our prayers, but also our daily decisions and relationships?
How might our church life look different if we were known above all as a people of thanksgiving?
Illustration / Reflection
The hymn writer Fanny Crosby, blind from infancy, once said:
“If at birth I had been able to make one petition, it would have been that I should be born blind… because when I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Saviour.”
Her gratitude did not depend on circumstances, but on her hope in Christ. True thanksgiving is not about whether life feels easy or difficult; it flows from knowing that God’s love is steadfast and His promises sure.
Practical Response
Personal: Keep a short “thankfulness list” this week. Each day write down three things—large or small—for which you are grateful.
Community: Take time to express thanks to someone in the church or community who has encouraged you. A few words of gratitude can be a great blessing.
Closing Prayer
Faithful Lord,
Your goodness and mercy surround me every day.
Teach me to give thanks not only when life is easy,
but also when I face challenges.
Fill my heart with gratitude,
shape my words with kindness,
and help me to live as a person whose life
reflects Your generosity.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
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