Thanking Others | Because of U | Pastor Rob Koke | Shoreline Church | Message

What if your success isn’t the result of your strength alone? In Part 2 of “Because of You,” discover how gratitude toward others unlocks joy, humility, and deeper connection.

In a world where so much of our success looks like individual achievement, Scripture reminds us of a powerful truth: none of us make it on our own. In this message, Pastor Rob teaches how gratitude toward others begins with humility. When we recognize the people who carried us, encouraged us, believed in us, and helped us along the way, something shifts in our spirit. Gratitude strengthens connection, lifts the soul, and invites God to elevate us.

Big idea:The more specific you are with your gratitude, the greater the impact. Don’t just say “thank you”—say why. Gratitude turns appreciation into honor.

what you’ll hearWhy humility is the pathway to authentic gratitude (James 4:10)How the apostle Paul modeled thankfulness for people in his life (Philippians 1:3–5)The difference between general appreciation and specific encouragementThe story from Luke 5 and why we should thank the people who helped carry us to JesusHow a Navy pilot’s encounter with the man who packed his parachute became a life lesson

Four ways to express thanks with intentionality:— Awareness: noticing who made your life easier— Humility: acknowledging you didn’t get here alone— Specificity: identifying what someone did and why it mattered— Action: expressing gratitude through words, letters, calls, or acts of honor

Why gratitude builds loyalty and unity, while pride erodes connectionHow honoring others invites God to lift you up in due time

key scriptures

1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “In everything give thanks”

Philippians 1:3–5 – “I thank my God every time I remember you…”

James 4:10 – “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up”

Luke 5:20 – “When Jesus saw their faith…”

Proverbs 16:18 – Pride before the fall