Dr. David Jeremiah, the renowned pastor and teacher of Turning Point, recently delivered a compelling sermon on the power of gratitude and the role memories play in cultivating a thankful heart. Drawing inspiration from Psalm 92, which begins with the words, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High,” Dr. Jeremiah encouraged listeners to embrace thankfulness as a cornerstone of their faith and daily lives. His message served as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of gratitude and how reflecting on God’s goodness through our personal memories can shape a heart filled with thanksgiving.
The Goodness of Gratitude
Dr. Jeremiah emphasized that thankfulness is not merely a seasonal practice reserved for holidays like Thanksgiving but a continual attitude of the heart. Gratitude aligns us with God’s will, deepens our relationship with Him, and reminds us of His faithfulness. Psalm 92, which praises God for His lovingkindness in the morning and His faithfulness at night, was presented as a template for a life of thanksgiving. Dr. Jeremiah highlighted how beginning and ending each day with an attitude of gratitude can bring peace, joy, and renewed perspective.
He further explained that thankfulness is a choice that transcends circumstances. While life may bring challenges, uncertainties, or pain, gratitude enables believers to focus on God’s unchanging nature. His goodness, mercy, and love remain constant, no matter the trials we face. In reflecting on the psalmist’s call to give thanks, Dr. Jeremiah underscored that gratitude is both an act of worship and a spiritual discipline.
Memories as a Foundation for Gratitude
One of the most profound aspects of the sermon was Dr. Jeremiah’s exploration of how memories shape a thankful heart. He explained that remembering God’s past blessings gives us the confidence to trust Him for the future. By reflecting on moments when God provided, healed, or comforted, believers can find reasons to be grateful, even in difficult seasons.
Dr. Jeremiah encouraged his audience to recall the milestones of their spiritual journeys—the answered prayers, unexpected blessings, and quiet moments of God’s presence. These memories, he said, are like spiritual markers that remind us of God’s faithfulness. When we meditate on these moments, our hearts naturally overflow with thanksgiving.
Practical Ways to Cultivate Thankfulness
Dr. Jeremiah concluded his sermon with practical advice for cultivating gratitude. He suggested journaling as a powerful tool for remembering and giving thanks. Writing down blessings, answered prayers, or even small joys from each day can create a habit of gratitude. He also encouraged believers to share their stories of God’s faithfulness with others, spreading an attitude of thankfulness within their families, churches, and communities.
Dr. Jeremiah’s sermon on Psalm 92 offered an uplifting and timely reminder that gratitude is a choice that transforms our hearts and minds. By looking back on God’s faithfulness through the lens of our memories, we can embrace a life of thanksgiving, worship, and joy. As he so aptly reminded his listeners, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord.” In doing so, we align ourselves with His will and open our hearts to His peace and blessings.
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