The Anointing of Thanksgiving By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV)
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Introduction
The Lord extends to us a profound and precious invitation today—the anointing of thanksgiving. In a world where gratitude has waned and reliance on the arm of flesh has increased, God calls His people back to the heart of worship: a life of continual thanksgiving. This message is a reminder of the power and beauty of living in the attitude of gratitude, as well as a divine promise that embracing this anointing will bring blessings, peace, and joy beyond measure.
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1. The Anointing of Gratitude is Available Today
“I say that I offer unto thee the anointing of gratitude, of thankfulness unto me.”
God, in His infinite mercy, offers His people an anointing of thankfulness. This is not a casual blessing but a divine empowerment to live in perpetual gratitude. He desires to uplift, direct, and guide us into a realm where thanksgiving flows continuously from our hearts and lips. Those who receive this anointing will experience the miraculous presence of God, for He inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3).
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2. Gratitude Unlocks Divine Possibilities
“I am the Living God who is the God of impossibility—trust thyselves to me.”
Living in thankfulness unlocks the fullness of God's blessings and miracles. A heart filled with gratitude becomes fertile ground for divine possibilities. When we abandon bitterness, accusation, and reliance on the flesh, God’s power flows unhindered in our lives. He calls us to trust Him entirely, believing that nothing is impossible for those who live in thanksgiving (Mark 10:27).
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3. Gratitude Replaces Accusation and Complaint
“There is no place under the anointing for bitterness, resentment, or accusation.”
In a world filled with anger and bitterness, God's people are called to live differently. Gratitude replaces complaints and accusations, creating a heart of peace and joy. Through thanksgiving, we abandon the attitudes that grieve God's heart and instead embrace His presence. This transformative shift allows us to experience His blessings fully, as shown in Philippians 4:6-7:
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
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4. Gratitude Sustains Us Through Trials
“It is me the Living God who has kept thee through the storms.”
Gratitude reminds us of God’s sustaining power in times of difficulty. When we reflect on His mercies, His protection, and His provision, our hearts are filled with thankfulness. We must remember that it is God who has carried us through trials and spared us from enemies, even when we did not realize it (Lamentations 3:22-23).
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5. Gratitude Leads to Joy and Abundance
“Count it a joy that I the Living God desire to bless thee in such a way.”
Gratitude opens the door to joy and abundance. God desires His people to live in the overflow of His blessings, filled with joy that comes from knowing Him. When we embrace the anointing of thankfulness, our lives reflect His glory, and we are uplifted into a realm of continual praise and rejoicing (Psalm 100:4-5).
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Summary
The anointing of thanksgiving is a divine invitation to live in continual gratitude. This sacred call shifts our focus from the arm of flesh to the power of God, transforming bitterness into joy and unlocking His blessings. Gratitude becomes the pathway to peace, strength, and a deeper relationship with God.
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Conclusion
Gratitude is not just a response to God's blessings; it is a lifestyle that honors Him. By embracing this anointing, we are empowered to live in the realm of gratitude, experiencing the fullness of His presence. God is calling us to abandon complaints, bitterness, and unbelief and to embrace thanksgiving as an act of worship and trust in His divine ability.
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Call to Action
Today, make a conscious decision to receive the anointing of thanksgiving. Reflect on the ways God has blessed, protected, and sustained you. Offer Him thanks and praise, not only for what He has done but for who He is. Surrender your heart to His will and allow gratitude to flow through every aspect of your life.
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Final Word of Encouragement
As you embrace the anointing of thanksgiving, know that God is drawing you closer to His heart. His promises are true, and His mercies are new every morning. Keep your eyes on Him, and let gratitude transform your life. The Living God desires to pour out blessings, joy, and peace upon those who walk in the attitude of gratitude. Receive this anointing with thanksgiving and watch as He works miracles in your life.
“Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” – Psalm 136:1 (NKJV)
