💛 Courting God: A Love Story of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is not just a response to blessings—it’s the first step in courting the Blesser.
by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

Courting God Bible Study

Day 2: Thanksgiving

There’s something beautiful happening in our Bible study right now—a holy pursuit, a divine romance. We’re calling it Courting God, and this week, we are focused on Tip 5: Thanksgiving.

The Bible tells us in Psalm 100:4 (ESV):
Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!

What God has been showing me is that thanksgiving is His love language. Like the words of affirmation we talk about in human relationships, our expressions of gratitude touch the Father’s heart in the deepest way. A grateful heart not only honors Him—it activates our faith. And faith, Scripture tells us, is the only thing that truly pleases God.

Without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
— Hebrews 11:6, ESV

This week in class, we will reflect on the woman with the issue of blood (Luke 8:43–48). She didn’t come to Jesus with a list of complaints. She came with faith. She came believing. She came grateful for the healing she hadn’t even received yet—but knew she would. Her gratitude opened the door to a miracle.

And Jesus said to her, ‘Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.’”
— Luke 8:48, ESV

Her approach teaches us the essence of courting God: bold, humble faith paired with grateful expectancy.

We also reflected on how our thanksgiving should go beyond what we feel in the moment:

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18, ESV

Even when things aren’t perfect, our choice to be thankful becomes a beautiful offering—one that honors God’s sovereignty and reflects our trust in His timing.

Again, we are reminded of this truth:

“Without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”
— Hebrews 11:6, ESV

Gratitude fuels faith, and faith pleases God.

Here are the six key takeaways for Week Two:

1. Thanksgiving is not optional—it is the gateway to God’s presence.
2. We cannot enter His courts without it.
3. Gratitude aligns our hearts with God’s will.
4. A thankful spirit activates our faith.
5. God delights in the words of thanksgiving from His children.
6. Thanksgiving is a powerful expression of love and trust in God.

✨ Challenge for the Week:

Before you ask God for anything, tell Him three specific things you are thankful for. Make gratitude your love language this week.

🙏 Closing Prayer:

Father,
Thank You for the invitation to draw near to You. Thank You for the access You’ve given us through thanksgiving and praise. Teach us to court You with grateful hearts—hearts that speak words of life, love, and trust. Help us to grow in faith as we practice the discipline of gratitude, even in hard seasons. May our thanksgiving be sweet to You, and may we never forget that Your presence is the greatest reward.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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