Thanksgiving Thoughts
Today is Thanksgiving, a day traditionally set aside
to remember the bounty and blessings that have been bestowed on us. If one
looks through the Scripture, it will become clear as to the value our God
places on Thanksgiving. Some form of the word thanks is recorded more than 150
times in the Bible. The spirit of thanksgiving is integral to a gospel-centered
life. Today my thoughts are turned to Paul’s command in I Thessalonians 5:18, “In
everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning
you.”
In EVERYTHING?
Really, Lord? Okay, I get it. It’s
not for everything, but you want me to exude a spirit of Thanksgiving in every
circumstance of life. This fall has
been difficult, as I have I have been sick – just inconvenience sick—nothing life
threatening. However, it has limited my effectiveness and my ability to do for
myself. It has culminated in a choice
that I feel is better for everyone, due to a hacking and annoying cough– to stay
home from the normal family gathering.
So how can I give thanks in the midst of this? First, I thank the Lord that despite my
loneliness, He is my Emmanuel – He is God with me, and I meet Him in His Word
and prayer. Second, I am thankful for
friends and family who are bringing me food – so that I can have a Thanksgiving
feast – My God is Jehovah-Jireh the one who provides. Third, I am thankful that even though my
doctors and doctors-to-be are driving me crazy, Jehovah-Shalom gives me peace
that He is fully in control of the situation.
Fourth, I am thankful that I know Jehovah—Tsidkenu, the Lord my righteous. This assures
me that no matter what happens, I am assured of His presence because Jesus
provided it for me through His death. I
am forever His, and for that I am most thankful. I hope you share that assurance as well.
Happy
Thanksgiving!
