SERIES: Real Thanksgiving

TITLE: Thanksgiving Not Thankskeeping

TEXT: Psalm 136 (P.520)

I.    THANKSGIVING FOR OUR (HOMELAND)

Verses 21-26 is basis for this thought.

Turn to John 14:1-3.

II.    THANKSGIVING FOR (CREATION)

This psalm is called a Litany.   That means:

1)     It was prepared for (public use).

2)     It includes phrases, fragments, and snippets from (other psalms).

3)     It was used by the (whole congregation) of worshipers.

The word used in verse 1 for steadfast love is one that expresses the covenant love God has for His people.

“Lord, Your faithful love reaches to heaven, Your faithfulness to the skies.  Your righteousness is like the highest mountain; Your judgments, like the deepest sea…God, Your faithful love is so valuable that people take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.” Ps.36:5-7 (HCSB)

Turn to John 1:3-4 (p.886)

III.   THANKSGIVING FOR (SALVATION)

Turn to Ephesians 2:4-9 (p.976)

NEXT WEEK:   Searching for the Christmas Spirit- Luke 2:1-38