Fourth Thursday of November (US)
5 Thanksgiving Sermon Ideas
Thanksgiving Sunday lands when the country is already thinking about gratitude — a rare cultural alignment with a Christian theme. The pastor's task is to call thanksgiving up from sentimentality into worship.
These ideas press past 'count your blessings' into the theological reality that thanksgiving is a command, a sacrifice, and a weapon.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
1. In Every Thing Give Thanks
Gratitude is commanded, not optional.
- •In every thing — not for every thing.
- •This is the will of God in Christ Jesus.
- •Why gratitude is a command.
Hebrews 13:15
2. The Sacrifice of Praise
Gratitude costs something — that's why it's a sacrifice.
- •By him therefore let us offer.
- •The fruit of our lips.
- •When praise is hardest, it pleases God most.
Luke 17:11–19
3. Ten Lepers
Nine out of ten miracles produce no gratitude.
- •All ten were cleansed.
- •One came back.
- •Where are the nine?
- •Thy faith hath made thee whole.
Psalm 103
4. Bless the LORD, O My Soul
Gratitude begins with self-talk.
- •Bless the LORD, O my soul.
- •Forget not all his benefits.
- •The list of benefits David remembers.
Psalm 100
5. Enter Into His Gates With Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is the doorway to worship.
- •A psalm of thanksgiving.
- •Serve the LORD with gladness.
- •Enter into his gates with thanksgiving.
Recommended readings
- Psalm 100 — The thanksgiving psalm.
- Psalm 136 — His mercy endureth for ever — twenty-six times.
- Colossians 3:15-17 — And be ye thankful.