Thanksgiving

In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 AMP

Always giving thanks to God the Father for all things, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ

 Ephesians 5:20 AMP

Oh come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. 

 Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. 

For the Lord is the great God, And the great King above all gods.

Psalm 95:1-3 NKJV

For many of us, it isn’t Thanksgiving Day without family encircling a bountiful table, with the smells of turkey and pumpkin pie wafting through the air. For others, good friends and a gourmet meal reflect Thanksgiving Day. Which works out great if we happen to have those blessings this Thanksgiving Day.

As I reflected on God’s word that reminds us to give thanks in all circumstances and for all things … and as I thought deeply of what “all circumstances” might mean … I immediately thought of all the families grieving this Thanksgiving Day. From those in my own family who are around the table even now, with a painfully empty chair, to those impacted by the recent Christmas parade massacre in the state of Wisconsin (2021).  Such profound loss. There may be loss in the form of loneliness this holiday or deep disappointment through dashed expectations.

Some reading this may literally have to sift through the debris of their lives to find something to “give thanks” for. Others need only take a quick glimpse around to be astounded at their great blessings. Whether we have been lavished with a bountiful supply or “celebrating” Thanksgiving living on the land or living in a prison cell … we have much to be thankful for. Today, this day, we have air in our lungs to offer praises to the God who has given us life and sustains us day by day. He has lavished us with salvation and His very presence to sustain us.

So, this Thanksgiving Day, even if it must be done through tears, or a search party is required to find something, whatever it takes, gives thanks to the God of heaven and earth who has given us all things to enjoy!

“God is in control, and therefore in EVERYTHING I can give thanks – not because of the situation but because of the One who directs and rules over it.”

Kay Arthur

Father God, God of all blessings, today we give You thanks for Your goodness and mercy. For the gift of Your Son on our behalf. For life and food and clothing and a bed (if we have one) and for the gift of freedom. We love You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Written by Becky White for the Lord Jesus