Contenders: Thanksgiving and Praise
June 2, 2024
Pastor Ricky Smith
Sermon Notes
I. Don’t Let What Divides Us Be Greater than What Unites Us
Philippians 4:2-3
I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
If We’re All in the Book of Life, We Should Get Over Ourselves and Get on the Same Page.
II. Rejoice Believing that God is Near and at Work
Philippians 4:4-5
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;
III. Choose Peace through Proactive Prayer Instead of Worry
Philippians 4:6-7
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
God Guards Us with Peace When We Come to Him in Prayer with Thanksgiving
Next Steps
- I confess my sin and turn to Jesus as King for the first time.
- I choose to prioritize the Gospel mission over my preference.
- I commit to expressing gratitude when I experience fear and anxiety.
Deep Dive
- What is your greatest fear? Why?
- Read Philippians 4:6-8. Do you struggle with anxiety? What is the most common lie you are tempted to believe?
- What are you thankful for? How does gratitude combat anxiety?
Springboards
- How often do you watch movies or listen to music that feeds sinful thoughts?
- Are you generally a positive or negative thinker?
- Read Philippians 4:8-9. How does what we consume influence what we think?
