H a b i t 1 0 : Give Thanks, Be Joyful, Give Glory
Three Greek words that feature prominently in the New Testament are very
closely related: “charis” (grace), “eucharisteo” (give thanks), “chara” (joy, happiness). Experiencing the grace of God gives us thousands of reasons to give thanks to God, which gives us joy and gives God glory. Written in 1647, the Westminster Shorter Catechism famously asks and answers: “What is the chief end of man? Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him for ever.” We like to nuance this answer by saying: “Man and Woman’s chief end is to glorify God by enjoying him and his gifts forever.” In our entitled, unhappy, self-centered generation we have a huge opportunity to point people to God through our enjoyment of God and the abundant life he gives us, which gives him so much glory.
MEMORIZE
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
STUDY JOHN 15:1-17, 1 THESSALONIANS 5:16-19, AND PHILIPPIANS 4:4-7.
What do these 3 texts teach us about grace, intimacy with God, gratitude,
joy, prayer, and God’s will? What indicatives (The indicative mood is a verb form used to make factual statements) and what imperatives (The imperative mood is a verb form that makes a request or a command) stand out in the these passages? Discuss together where you’re at in your discipleship as it relates to these texts and this habit, and share any connections you can make with the core book you’re reading.
“What do you have that you did not receive?” 1 Corinthians 4:7
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