Become New with John Ortberg 1. Thank God You're Here: How Feeling Unworthy Makes You More Grateful
Nov 10, 2025
Delve into the surprising link between gratitude and humility. Discover how recognizing that we aren't deserving of everything can deepen our appreciation for life's gifts. Real-life stories and insights from thinkers like Dallas Willard reveal why gratitude is fundamental to holiness. Explore the profound parable of the unworthy servant and how it encourages a shift from entitlement to awe. Practical tips invite you to see everyday tasks as opportunities for gratitude. This journey could transform how you live and connect with the divine.
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Gratitude After Care
- Ronald Rolheiser shared a hospital story where a pained truck driver thanked a nurse after she relieved his suffering.
- He insisted on gratitude because "it's nobody's job to take care of me," showing gratitude arises when care is experienced as gift.
Three Elements That Produce Gratitude
- Gratitude requires three elements: a benefit, a benefactor, and a beneficiary who recognizes the gift.
- Without all three, pleasure may occur but true gratitude won't form.
Unworthiness Preserves Gratitude
- Jesus' parable in Luke 17 reframes obedience as unearned service, saying, "we are only unworthy slaves."
- This posture of unworthiness prevents entitlement and preserves gratitude.
