Sunday, June 7, 2009

TITLE: HOW CAN I SAY THANKS


INTRODUCTION

The God of the universe came to earth as a man and dwelt among us. He lived a sinless life and was humiliated, tortured and crucified by the ones He came to save. As He hung on the cross, He took on all the sins of the world (past, present and future) to redeem those of us who will accept and profess Him as our Lord and Savior.

How can we possibly show adequate appreciation for what Jesus Christ has done for us? We can’t. But we can show him how much we love Him and appreciate His sacrifice. Christ told us that if we love Him, we will keep His commandments. He told us that loving God with all your heart, mind and soul is the greatest commandment. And he also told us that loving your neighbor as yourself was the second greatest commandment. We can praise His holy name now and look forward to praising Him in Heaven for all eternity.


SCRIPTURE

Focus Verse: John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

Additional Verses: Matthew 22:37-40, Matthew 16:24-25, Ephesians 2:8-9, Matthew 17:20


DISCUSSION

How can I say thanks,
For all You’ve done for me;
When Your mercy, grace and love,
Mean so much more than I can see.

How can I say thanks,
For I was lost in sin;
But by Your grace You saved me,
A brand new life I did begin.

How can I say thanks,
For living in my heart;
Your Holy Spirit guides me,
I know we’ll never be apart.

How can I say thanks,
Your death has brought me life;
I’ll praise Your name forever,
No more to deal with fear and strife.

How can I say thanks,
There’s nothing I can do;
But die to myself daily,
Take up my cross and follow You.

How can I say thanks,
You meet my every need;
By faith I can move mountains,
Faith as a grain of mustard seed.

How can I say thanks,
Your will is never wrong;
Your grace is all sufficient,
When I am weak then am I strong.

How can I say thanks,
By keeping Your commands;
Love God with heart, soul and mind.
And neighbors as Your law demands.

How can I say thanks,
You change me everyday;
To make me more like Yourself,
Please sanctify me this I pray.

How can I say thanks,
In Heaven praising You;
Sing glory, praise and honor,
There’s nothing else I’d rather do.


PRAYER

Heavenly Father, may the way I live my life show my love for You and my appreciation for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to die for my sins. May your Holy Spirit guide and teach me. May I deny myself and allow Your strength to be made perfect in my weakness. Help me Father, to love You with all that I am and to love others as You have loved me. In the name of Jesus, Amen.