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Main Idea: Would your life be better if you were more grateful?

Introduction: This weekend before the Thanksgiving holiday, Pastor encouraged us all to lob a grenade of gratitude in our lives as a weapon against the enemy.

Discussion Starter: We say “thank you” all the time as a matter of routine politeness. But when was the last time you told someone “thank you” not just as a matter of routine, but because you truly felt grateful and had to express it? How did expressing that gratitude make you feel? How did the other person respond?

Grow

Primary Scriptures: Luke 17:11-19, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Discussion Questions:

1. Read Luke 17:11-19. Why do you think not all of the lepers returned to thank Jesus? What are some reasons that we do not give thanks to God and to others today?
2. Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. Have you ever met someone who was constantly grateful—even in difficult circumstances? If you have, share how their attitude affected you.
3. Pastor Chris said to express thanks by faith. How can you be thankful when you don’t feel thankful?
4. Practice gratitude as a group—take turns sharing one or two specific things that you are grateful for this week. You can be grateful for big things and small things, things done by God and things done by man. Make a plan to continue this gratitude practice. Text each other through the week sharing what you are grateful for.

Protect

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into twos or threes for this section. 

As we move into the holiday season, take some time to pray over each other. Some people love and enjoy the holidays, and for others it may bring back painful memories, sadness, or loss. Pray for protection of our faith. Pray that we can be salt and light as we see family and friends at holiday gatherings.