Table of Contents
Helping You Experience God
Developing and practicing thankfulness
Across these four messages, the central and overarching theme is the development and practice of thankfulness as a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith and a flourishing life. The speaker repeatedly emphasizes that this thankfulness is not superficial happiness but a deep, joy-filled attitude rooted in a profound understanding of God’s nature and actions.
A key insight presented is that thankfulness can and should exist even in the midst of suffering. Both the Apostle Paul, the author of Colossians, and Jesus Himself are presented as exemplars of enduring immense hardship while maintaining thankfulness, not for the suffering itself, but for the purpose it serves and the deeper experience of God it facilitates. Suffering is portrayed as an opportunity for growth and a means through which God draws people closer to Him, making it more important to experience God than to always be happy.
The messages stress that Christian thankfulness is intellectually grounded, stemming from an understanding of core theological truths. This includes countering Gnostic ideas that matter is evil and God is distant. Instead, the messages highlight that Jesus, as the incarnate God, bridges the gap between God and humanity and between spirit and matter, making our physical world and bodies significant. His preeminence as creator and sustainer of all things means that all existence is owed to Him, and His reconciling work brings restoration to creation and relationships.
Furthermore, thankfulness is presented as a communal and active practice. Believers are encouraged to pray with thankfulness for one another, acknowledging God’s placement of individuals within the community and their faithfulness and kindness. This active, overflowing thankfulness serves as a “gift to the world,” enabling believers to be “lightbearers” of God’s kingdom, bringing love, peace, and hope into suffering and darkness. The messages suggest that genuine thankfulness leads to a desire for others to experience God and can be cultivated through intentional practices like gratitude lists. Ultimately, the purpose of human existence, unlike machines, is to feel the worth and beauty of God’s grace, allowing lives to become vessels of praise and demonstrate His kingdom in the world.
Click for Message 1:
This message, based on Colossians 1:9-14, focuses on developing “the superpower of thankfulness”. It emphasizes that believers should continually pray to be filled with the knowledge of God’s will, wisdom, and understanding, so they may live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him, bearing fruit and growing in knowledge. The speaker highlights the importance of joyful thankfulness, noting that it should be an emotion-driven attitude, not just a routine. The message contrasts the speaker’s own privileged situation in Australia with global suffering (e.g., Israel and Iran conflicts, homelessness) to underscore reasons for thankfulness, such as safety, security, and housing. It recalls that the author of Colossians (Paul) wrote from a place of intense suffering (shipwrecked, scourged, jailed, hungry, cold) yet still called for thankfulness, especially among believers, because of God’s work in and through them. The message also encourages praying with thankfulness for the community and for people to experience God, rather than merely for worldly happiness or the removal of difficulties, as suffering can lead to deeper experiences of God. It reminds listeners to be thankful for rescue from darkness into the kingdom of light and encourages expressing gratitude to others and reflecting on things to be grateful for.
This message delves into Colossians 1:15-23, stressing that thankfulness should stem from a deep understanding of what God has done, rather than just emotions. It introduces the complex idea of Gnosticism, a cultural belief of the day, which held that special, secret knowledge was required to reach God and that matter was inherently evil. The speaker contrasts this with the Christian gospel, which teaches that salvation is available to everyone, regardless of intellect, and that God created matter as good, even though it is now corrupted. Gnosticism’s view of an eternal, evil matter led to the belief that God and matter could not truly interact, suggesting Jesus was merely an “emanation”. However, the message asserts that the Bible portrays Jesus as God incarnate, who could be physically touched and seen, thus bridging the gap between spirit and matter. Jesus is presented as the “image of the invisible God” and the “firstborn over all creation,” which is clarified to mean His preeminence and status as the source and creator of all things, not that He was created. The message concludes by emphasizing that understanding Jesus’s identity and His reconciling work (restoring good from evil, bridging alienation) should lead to profound thankfulness. This good news means that “matter matters,” and God’s kingdom will eventually restore all things on Earth, including human relationships, addressing poverty, hunger, and homelessness.
Click for Message 3:
This message explores the concept of “overflowing with thankfulness” and rejoicing in suffering for a purpose. Drawing from Colossians, it highlights Paul’s statement about rejoicing in suffering “for you” and filling up what is “lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions,” suggesting suffering has a purpose – to present people “fully mature in Christ”. The speaker uses personal struggles with depression (which for him was a “thinking thing,” not requiring medication) and the challenges of running marathons as analogies for enduring suffering when there is a “why” or a purpose. He contrasts the deistic view of a distant God with the Christian belief that Jesus “tabernacled” among us, meaning God is present with us in our suffering and brings His kingdom into the world’s darkness, conflict, and pain. This suffering allows believers to be “lightbearers” of hope, love, grace, and peace, bringing God’s kingdom to others. The message also touches on the difference between human feeling and artificial intelligence, arguing that humans were made to feel the worth, glory, and beauty of grace, which transcends what machines can do. It concludes by encouraging genuine thankfulness for everyday blessings and a God who lived incarnate and suffered for humanity.
Click for Message 4:
This message introduces the series on developing the “superpower of thankfulness,” based on Colossians 1:1-8. It asserts that thankfulness is key to living a “flourishing life,” not necessarily by having a lot, but by being genuinely thankful for what one possesses. The speaker recounts observations from a mission trip to Manila, Philippines, where people receiving microloans, despite having little, exhibited “sheer joy and thankfulness”. He emphasizes that the call to be thankful comes from the Apostle Paul, who himself experienced immense suffering for his faith, including being imprisoned, flogged, shipwrecked, and constantly in danger. This suffering experience makes his call for thankfulness powerful and credible. The message also refers to Jesus as a “man of sorrows” who sympathizes with weaknesses, having been tempted but without sinning, illustrating that suffering is not something God is pleased by, but something through which people can experience Him more deeply and learn to connect with others in pain. It highlights a quote from Stephen Colbert, who learned to “love the thing that I most wish had not happened,” implying gratitude not for the tragedy itself, but for the growth and connection it enables. The message states that growing thankfulness should be an external sign of a deepening experience of God for people of faith. It encourages praying for one another with thankfulness, reflecting on God’s placement of individuals, their faithfulness, and kindness. Practical tips for cultivating thankfulness include keeping a gratitude list, as research suggests it improves mental health.
Flourishing Faith: Day 1 Worship
We’re about to begin a new 7-day challenge, and this one is particularly meaningful—it’s centered around faith.
Today’s challenge is about learning to worship God. Worship is a posture of both head and heart, a way to honor God intentionally and wholeheartedly.
Now, I don’t know where you stand personally in your view of God—whether you see God as a higher power, a personal being, or something else entirely—but I want to encourage you to reflect on how you worship.
One of the simplest ways to begin worship is through music. Find a song that lifts your spirit, restores your heart, and contains words that encourage your faith in God. Sing along if you feel comfortable. The song doesn’t need to be overtly religious—it just needs to move you.
Choose something that honors people, the world, or God. Avoid songs with profanity or themes that pull you away from what is good, true, and uplifting. Look for something inspiring—something that stirs you.
So, here’s today’s challenge:
Find a song, take a few quiet moments to listen, and if you’re able, sing along. Begin to practice the act of worship in a way that’s personal, heartfelt, and meaningful to you.
How Do I Pray
The other day, I was asked how I have a personal prayer devotional time, and I shared a really simple method that I use. It’s based on what is called the Five W’s: Welcome, Worship, Wonder, Word, and Works.
1. Welcome
In my personal time, I begin with Welcome—simply inviting God into the space I am in. I might say something like:
“Lord, You are welcome here today. Today is Your day, and I give myself over to You.”
I spend a little time—maybe a few seconds or a couple of minutes—welcoming God into the space, acknowledging that He is the Lord of my life, and surrendering the day to Him.
2. Worship
Next, I begin to Worship God by acknowledging who He is. I might use music or simply speak words of praise, focusing on the names of God and declaring His greatness. For example:
“Lord, I welcome You into this place and acknowledge You as the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. I honor You as the Creator of all things.”
This time of worship helps position my heart correctly—recognizing who God is and praising Him.
3. Wonder
After worship, I move on to Wonder—recognizing God’s work in my life and in the lives of those around me. I thank Him for answered prayers and for His presence in the world. For example:
“Lord, I thank You for the wonderful creation You have made—the beauty of the stars at night and the trees during the day. I acknowledge Your work in my family and in my community.”
I list things where I see God at work, which shifts my mindset toward seeing His hand in everyday life.
4. Word
Then, I turn to the Word—which for me primarily means opening the Scriptures. For example, I’m currently working through James, so I will read, study, and reflect on it. Others engage with the Word in different ways, such as Bible studies, devotionals, or workbooks.
The goal is to hear from God and understand what He is calling me to in this season.
5. Works
Finally, I move on to Works, which involves two components:
- Personal Application: What do I need to do based on what I’ve read in the Word? This might involve praying for myself, my family, or my church community. I might say:
“Lord, I need Your wisdom for an upcoming event. Please work in so-and-so’s life.” - Kingdom Expansion: Praying for outward ministry—evangelism, missions, and the broader movement of God’s kingdom. At this point, I pray for people God has placed on my heart, nations, and difficult situations around the world.
Flexibility
I don’t always go through all five steps—sometimes I do just a couple, other times all five. The time varies; it could be a few minutes or an hour. The important thing is to connect with God in a way that fits your personality and life rhythm, whether morning, afternoon, or evening.
Ultimately, personal prayer life should help you live out what God has called you to do.
How do I study the bible?
Welcome to our “How Do I Study?” series!
This session focuses on How Do I Study the Bible, and I want to share 10 helpful hints that might assist you in your Bible study journey.
Devotional Reading vs. Study
Reading the Bible devotionally and studying it for deeper understanding are two different approaches. Sometimes, you might simply read the Bible to enjoy the text, while other times, you may want to delve deeper into its meaning. These hints focus on intentional Bible study, which I encourage doing on a regular basis.
10 Hints for Effective Bible Study
- Begin with Prayer
Before starting, pray and invite the Holy Spirit to give you understanding. Psalm 119:18 says, “Open my eyes that I might see the wonders of Your word.” Taking time to quiet your heart and ask God for insight allows for spiritual understanding, not just intellectual comprehension. - Choose a Topic or Passage
Instead of jumping randomly between verses, focus on one section over time. For example, you might study the book of James, spending a different day on each chapter, or choose a Psalm and reflect deeply on its themes. - Read in Context
Understanding the full context of a passage is crucial. If you’re studying James, read the entire book first before focusing on individual chapters.- Use a Bible dictionary or read introductory notes in your Bible to learn about the book’s author, background, and historical setting.
- Recognize literary styles—for example, Psalms are poetic, while James is instructional.
- Observe & Ask Questions
As you read, write down key observations and questions. A helpful approach is Rudyard Kipling’s “Six Honest Men” questions:- What is being said?
- Why was it written?
- When was it written?
- How was it communicated?
- Who wrote it and to whom?
This method helps uncover deeper meanings beyond a surface-level reading.
- Avoid Commentaries Too Soon
First, study the passage yourself before reading commentaries. While Bible dictionaries provide historical context, avoid relying on others’ interpretations until you’ve formed your own insights. - Use Cross-References
Scripture often explains itself. If studying a passage about love, look up other verses on love to see how they connect. In the Church of Christ, there’s a saying: “Let the Bible interpret the Bible.” - Utilize Bible Study Tools
Resources like Logos software, cross-reference Bibles, and online concordances can help clarify Greek and Hebrew meanings, offering a deeper understanding. - Pause for Reflection & Meditation
Bible study is not just academic—it’s an opportunity to hear from God personally.- First, understand what the passage meant to the original audience.
- Then, ask how it applies to you today.
- Finally, meditate on how God is speaking through His word.
- Apply What You’ve Learned
Don’t just accumulate knowledge—live out what Scripture teaches! A good rule is: “Study the Bible until it tells you something you need to do, change, obey, or apply.” - Study Consistently
Bible study should be like a healthy diet—small, consistent portions are better than occasional binge reading. Aim for daily reading, and schedule dedicated study sessions weekly.
The Bible in Community
Most biblical teachings were given to communities, not just individuals. Engage in group study, discuss passages with trusted leaders, and explore how God is guiding your church and community.
Final Thoughts
The most important thing is simply to engage with Scripture and allow God to reveal His truth. I encourage you to check out more of our “How Do I Study?” series for additional insights!
How do I spend time with God?
Hi, Pastor Pete here again with a quick tip on spending time in prayer with God. Sometimes, I use a simple outline called BBII.
I start by sitting quietly somewhere and taking a few deep breaths to center myself and calm down. Normally, I breathe in through my nose and out through my mouth, repeating this three to five times—it really helps to settle my mind. Then, I usually close my eyes because that works best for me, but you might prefer keeping yours open.
Next, I reflect on the phrase: Be still and know that I am God. I sit quietly, whether for a few seconds or a few minutes, simply centering myself on God’s presence. I remind myself that I don’t need to do anything to be acceptable to God—I am already accepted because He loves me. So, I take time just to be still in His presence.
Then, I move on to I am grateful for…. For example, I am grateful for the house I live in because I don’t have to sit in the rain. I am grateful for my vehicle because it allows me to drive to see my children. I am grateful for my church because… (Here, I would list a few more things.) The because is important—it helps ground my gratitude in something specific. I typically mention three to five things.
Finally, I pray for others. I bring specific people to mind and lift them up in prayer.
It’s a simple framework:
BBII – Breathe, Be still, I am grateful for, I pray for.
I hope this is a helpful little guide for structuring your devotional time with God.