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Gratitude is easy when life runs smoothly. But what about when the plans fall apart, when people fail us, or when faith feels like work?
In Pastor Mike Sanders’ message, “Be Thankful Anyway,” we’re reminded that real thankfulness isn’t tied to our circumstances—it’s anchored in God’s grace and His unchanging faithfulness.
In 1 Corinthians 1:4–9, the Apostle Paul shows us how to live with gratitude that lasts through both the highs and lows of life.
Many Christians wrestle with the fear of losing their salvation. But Pastor Mike reminds us that salvation is not a reward for perfect behavior—it’s a gift secured by Jesus Christ Himself.
Romans 8:1 says,
“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
God doesn’t revoke His promises when we stumble. Grace is not a loan we must repay—it’s a covenant sealed by the blood of Christ.
Even when our faith wavers, God’s grace holds steady. That’s why we can give thanks—not because we are flawless, but because His forgiveness is.
Paul told the Corinthians that they were “enriched in everything by Him.” (1 Corinthians 1:5) Every believer receives spiritual gifts—abilities given by God to strengthen the church and reach others.
Whether you serve through encouragement, teaching, compassion, or prayer, your gifts are meant to be used. Pastor Mike challenges us to step forward and make ourselves available to serve.
When believers use their gifts together, the church becomes a reflection of God’s generosity and love.
It can be easy to grow discouraged when the people we care about drift from God. Yet Paul gave thanks for the Corinthians even in their immaturity, believing that God would complete His work in them.
We are called to trust that same promise. Philippians 1:6 assures us that “He who began a good work in you will complete it.”
So instead of focusing on where someone falls short, we can thank God for what He has already started in their hearts and pray with confidence for their continued growth.
Gratitude in relationships begins when we stop demanding perfection and start celebrating God’s progress in others.
The early church lived in constant anticipation of Jesus’ return, and Paul encouraged believers to keep their eyes on that hope.
Every generation asks, “When will Christ return?” The answer remains the same: soon—and until then, we are called to stay faithful and active in His mission.
Pastor Mike reminds us that the world’s chaos is not a sign of God’s absence but of His patience. He waits because He desires all people to come to repentance.
Knowing this, we live each day with urgency, sharing the gospel and serving others with joy. Gratitude grows when we remember that our Savior is coming again.
No matter what changes around us, God remains faithful. People may disappoint us, life may bring trials, but His promises never fail.
1 Corinthians 1:9 says,
“God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.”
He faithfully completes the salvation He began, provides strength to resist temptation, and restores our hearts when bitterness creeps in.
This Thanksgiving, Pastor Mike encourages us to ask God for help in escaping the temptation to live in resentment—and instead, to pray for those who have hurt us. Gratitude flourishes when we choose prayer over anger and trust over despair.
Thankfulness isn’t reserved for perfect seasons—it’s a daily decision to see God’s hand at work, even in imperfect circumstances.
When we focus on His grace, gifts, promises, and faithfulness, we discover that there’s always a reason to be thankful anyway.
If this message encouraged you, explore more teachings from Pastor Mike Sanders on the Hope Worth Having podcast.
No matter what you’re facing, remember—in Christ, there is always hope worth having.
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