Session One

PRAYER and FASTING

Thanksgiving for Christ’s victorious sacrifice

No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.’ Romans 8:39

REFLECTION

When the bible challenges us to “give thanks in all circumstances,” it can feel a bit unrealistic. Let’s be honest: there are moments when the last thing on your mind is gratitude. Sometimes, we feel we have every right to lash out, scream, or retreat into bitterness.

However the scriptures offer a different perspective. Paul directs the believers in Rome and us today, to look past the immediate chaos and see God’s hand in all things. Once we grasp the truth that His love is inseparable from us, gratitude stops being a chore and starts becoming a natural response. This victory perspective is the key to developing a thankful heart, even when the world feels like it is closing in

QUOTES

“Gratitude is an offering precious in the sight of God, and it is one that the poorest of us can make and be not poorer but richer for having made it. A.W Tozer

PRAYER POINT

Thanking the Father: Take time to thank God for initiating His rescue plan. Worship Him for His sovereignty over the powers of sin and death and for being in total control of your story.
Thanking Jesus: Meditate on the fact that Jesus went to the cross willingly, praying, “Not my will, but Yours.” Be grateful for His sacrifice and the absolute, conclusive nature of His victory. Thank Him for His personal love for you.
Thank the Holy Spirit: Thank the Spirit for constantly revealing the Father’s heart to you. Ask Him to help you apply the love of Jesus to your daily life. Invite His presence and power to help you embrace gratitude as a lifestyle rather than just a morning exercise.

MEDITATE

Think of the most “powerful” things in our world: wealth, weaponry, governments, or even the weight of broken relationships. As influential as they are, none of them can separate you from the love of Christ.