Developing Gratitude. (Philippians 1: 1-8)

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to our next episode in our study of Paul’s letter to the Philippians. Today we begin a new section—one that speaks directly to the heart, and to something every believer longs for but often struggles to cultivate: an attitude of gratitude. I used to know two quite elderly Christian ladies. They’re the same age, and they attended the same church. They had both walked through similar tragedies, but that’s where the similarities end.  One of them is consistently negative and critical. I’ve known her for years, and I honestly cannot recall a single conversation where she didn’t have something harsh to say about someone or something. Her criticisms are sharp, and they come easily.  The other lady is her exact opposite. She is positive, warm, and deeply grateful. I’ve also known her for many years, and in every conversation—without exception—she finds something to thank God for. Something good to notice. Someone to appreciate. Some blessing to acknowledge.  I remember walking away from conversations with the first lady thinking, “Lord, deliver me from becoming like that.”  And walking away from conversations with the second lady thinking, “Lord, help me become more like her.” So let me ask you a personal question: How can we become more like that second lady, and how can we develop an attitude of gratitude? So how do we develop it?  Well, one of the best ways to learn any virtue is to look at someone who possessed it—and ask how they got it. And when we turn to the New Testament, one man stands out:  The Apostle Paul.  So today we ask: How did Paul develop such an attitude?  What was the key to his grateful spirit, and how can we cultivate the same attitude in our own lives? Save the World Podcast In-depth lectures and interviews on issues affecting the continued survival of human... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R. McCandless... Follow and support me as an independent podcast creator on Patreon. Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon To receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at: Jeremy McCandless | Substack Check out my other Podcasts. My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment. https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891 The Classic Literature Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906 To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit: Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest update