giving thanks to the lord is a good thing (psalm 92:1)
Introduction:
1. This verse reveals an important principle that we are emphasizing today: "giving thanks to the Lord is a good thing." 2. As we study the Scriptures we will receive instruction from 3 great teachers: David, Jesus, and Paul. a. They all believed that "giving thanks to the Lord is a good thing." b. They all have something to teach us about "giving thanks." Discussion: I. FIRST, WE LEARN FROM DAVID THAT "GIVING THANKS TO THE LORD IS A GOOD THING"
A. Let us consider some information David included in Psalm 30. B. In this Psalm David reflected upon various ways in which God had blessed him. 1. On many occasions God had protected David from his enemies [David's enemies had not been able to take his life]. 2. On many occasions God had turned David's grief into joy. 3. Throughout his life, God had allowed David to prosper. C. Reflecting upon God's blessings gave David confidence that God would respond to his requests for help (vs.10). D. David concluded in vs.12b by stating his intention to give thanks to God forever. E. In vs.4 David called upon God's people to follow his example. F. Reflecting upon God's holiness, as David did, will lead us to give thanks to Him. G. That is a good thing. II. SECOND, WE LEARN FROM JESUS THAT "GIVING THANKS TO THE LORD IS A GOOD THING"
A. Jesus gave thanks on many occasions, including: 1. when He fed the 5,000 (Matthew 14:19-21) 2. when He fed the 4,000 (Matthew 15:36-38). B. Jesus commended the Samaritan He healed of leprosy for "giving Him thanks" (Luke 17:15-19). C. Giving thanks was very important to our Lord. D. Let us practice the admonition given in Hebrews 13:15 -- that is a good thing. III. THIRD, WE LEARN FROM PAUL THAT "GIVING THANKS TO THE LORD IS A GOOD THING"
A. Paul often expressed his gratitude to the Lord. B. One example is 1 Timothy 1:12-17 where he thanked the Lord for saving him and putting him into the ministry, even though he had persecuted the church. C. Paul's conversion is recorded in Acts 9, 22, 26. 1. In Acts 9:6 he asked the Lord what he needed to do. 2. In Acts 22:16 Ananias told him what he needed to do. 3. We read about his response in Acts 9:18. 4. At this point he was given a new start (2 Corinthians 5:17). D. In addition to being thankful, Paul taught the Lord's followers to give thanks. 1. See Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:18. 2. According to these verses from Paul, "giving thanks is a good thing." Conclusion:
1. We have received instruction from David, Jesus, and Paul about giving thanks to the Lord. 2. Let us imitate their examples and practice their instructions. 3. According to Revelation 7:9-12, "thanksgiving" will be a special activity in heaven -- that will be "a good thing."
