Open Handed, Part 2

Is anxiety an inevitable feature of our lives? Do worry and fear need to have their way in our lives regularly? Well, according to the Apostle Paul, the answer is actually ‘no.’ For Paul, it didn’t seem to matter whether he was having the worst day or the best day–every day was an opportunity to give thanks and be grateful.

I Thank God
Maverick City Music

Firm Foundation (He Won’t)
Cody Carnes

Great Are You Lord
All Sons and Daughters

Gratitude
Brandon Lake

Why don’t we recognize blessings?
1. Busyness
2. Envy
3. Greed
4. Circumstances

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Philippians 1:29
For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake…

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Melissa Kruger
“The bedrock of our rejoicing isn’t the goodness of our day but the goodness of our God.”

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Philippians 4:4-7
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 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.

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Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

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Philippians 4:10-13
I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

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Dr. Merkle
“Paul is not saying that he can do all things through Christ, but rather that he can prevail or have the victory over any circumstance by relying on Christ and his strength. Our circumstances are constantly changing, but God never changes. Paul was at peace with his circumstances because he didn’t rest his hope on them, but on God. That Paul was able to rejoice while in prison is nothing short of a miraculous gift given supernaturally by the Holy Spirit.”

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Philippians 4:19-20
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

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The Practice of Gratitude
– Godward – Everything we have comes from God.
– Daily – For us, I would say daily. Daily show gratitude.
– Specific – As you’re speaking to God, go ahead be specific.

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Philippians 4:4-7
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 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.

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