Ezekiel 47, Psalm 133, 1 Corinthians 2:9, Ephesians 3:20, Luke 17, Psalm 118:24, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-19

Matt Summerfield considers what is important to God to ensure the river of His presence flows freely.

May God stir us to imagine the impossible, to pray the impossible, to seek the impossible and when the impossible starts to happen we will all know that God alone has done the immeasurably more.

3. Gratitude is important to God

There's a story told in Luke 17 where Jesus heals 10 men who are suffering with leprosy. All of them receive a miracle, but only one returns to give thanks and praise to God.

It's because of Jesus' grace that all 10 remained healed, but it's clear that Jesus is disappointed with ingratitude.

In Psalm 118:24 we have these well-known words, 'This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.'

Every day is a day to be grateful. Ingratitude can block the flow of what God wants to do, whereas gratitude releases the river.

'Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit.' (1 Thessalonians 5:16-19)

Could it be that Paul is saying that a lack of rejoicing and gratitude can quench the spirit; can block the flow of the river? I think so.

The Kingdom of Heaven is a celebration. The throne of God is surrounded by worship and with angels declaring how awesome and wonderful God is.

I believe with all my heart that God is longing for the river of His blessing to flow in and through us; through every church into every community.

Are you longing for that? Is there a catalyst?

• God is asking each of us to play our part in working hard to keep the unity.


• God is asking each of us to raise our expectations and dare to dream.


• God is asking each of us to cultivate an attitude of gratitude.