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Holidays

Where Are the Nine?

Purpose

To stress the importance of giving thanks for God's blessings.

Scripture

Jesus asked, 'Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?' (Luke 17:17).

Devotion

I. Introduction

During the Thanksgiving season, our thoughts turn to the many things for which we are grateful.

Is it enough to thank the Lord for His blessing once a year? Of course not. We should make a daily habit of giving thanks.

The Bible story of the Ten Lepers illustrates how easily we can forget to thank the Lord for His blessings.

II. Outline

A. Circumstances of the Ten Lepers

(study Leviticus 14:1-32 and Luke 17:11-19)

1. Separated from society
   
2. Dying a slow death
   
3. Lonely, hopeless

B. Unexpected Event

1. Jesus visited their village.
   
2. They cried for mercy.
   
3. They were cleansed; all received healing and all could return home.

C. Spontaneous

1. One saw that he was healed.
   
2. He returned and glorified God.
   
3. He fell down and gave thanks.

III. Conclusion

All ten lepers met Jesus and received healing. Each had opportunity to thank Jesus for healing, but in the excitement of the moment and the joy of the experience, they forgot to stop for a brief minute to say, "Thanks!"

Are we sometimes like the nine lepers? Does our lifestyle demand so much of us that we do not stop long enough each day to thank the Lord for His blessings to us?

It is wonderful to have one day designated for Thanksgiving. (Allow time for the women to mention things for which they are thankful. On a chalkboard, list these things briefly.)

Also, discuss ways we can train ourselves and our families to develop an attitude of gratitude. Thanking the Lord should be one of our good habits. We should also express gratitude to one another.

Closing

Read in unison Psalm 100.