Outline:

I. We are in the season of giving and receiving gifts

II. When we receive a valuable or meaningful gift, it changes how we live and calls us to live with thanksgiving

III. Seven Characteristics of a thankful and changed life in 2 Peter 1:3-15

·      Excellence – doing your best in all things

·      Knowledge – knowing truths of God and knowing God

·      Self-control – doing what is appropriate when it is appropriate

·      Steadfastness – endurance in difficulty

·      Godliness – devotion and commitment to God

·      Brotherly affection – fellowship and Christian community

·      Love – compassion and care for all people