Small Group Bible Study: Gratitude

The Power of Gratitude Scripture: King James Version (KJV) Duration: 45–60 minutes Group Size: 4–12 Supplies: KJV Bibles, pens, printed handouts (optional), gratitude journals or index cards.

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1. WELCOME & ICEBREAKER (5 min)

Leader: “In one word, what’s something you’re thankful for right now?” Go around the circle. No explanations—just one word each.

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2. OPENING PRAYER (2 min)

“O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever” (Psalm 136:1, KJV). Leader prays: Thank God for His goodness and for gathering the group.

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3. SCRIPTURE READING (10 min)

Leader reads aloud (or assign rotating readers):

1. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “In every thing give thanks…”
2. Psalm 100:4 – “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving…”
3. Philippians 4:6-7 – “Be careful for nothing; but…with thanksgiving…”
4. 2 Corinthians 9:15 – “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.”
5. Luke 17:15-16 – The one leper who returned.

Pause after each verse. Ask: What phrase stands out to you?

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4. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS (20–25 min)

Use these in order. Encourage everyone to speak at least once.

1. 1 Thess. 5:18 says “in every thing give thanks.” → What’s the hardest situation you’ve ever tried to thank God in? → How can gratitude change a trial instead of denying it?
2. Psalm 100:4 calls thanksgiving the gate to God’s presence. → When have you felt closest to God during a moment of thanks?
3. Phil. 4:6-7 links thanksgiving in prayer to God’s peace. → What worry are you carrying this week? → How might naming one blessing shift your prayer?
4. 2 Cor. 9:15 & Luke 17:15-16 focus on Christ and the healed leper. → What’s one way Jesus’ “unspeakable gift” makes you grateful today? → Why do you think only one leper returned?

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5. APPLICATION CHALLENGE (10 min)

“3×3 Gratitude Practice”

1. Tonight: Write 3 things you’re thankful for on an index card.
2. Tomorrow: Pray Philippians 4:6-7 over one worry, starting with thanks.
3. Next meeting: Bring your card to share one item aloud.

Leader: “Let’s text each other one gratitude each day this week—keep it short!”

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6. CLOSING PRAYER CIRCLE (5 min)

Popcorn style: Each person finishes the sentence:

“Lord, I thank You for…” End with the leader praying Psalm 92:1: “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD…”

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Leader Tip: Model vulnerability. If discussion lags, share a personal story first. End on time—gratitude grows in community, not pressure.