THANKSGIVING

On the first thanksgiving, the pilgrims were truly thankful for

what God had done for them in their new homeland (USA). He
had protected them from harsh weather, hostile neighbors and
diseases, and given them a good harvest.

Later, ‘Thanksgiving’ was established as a National Holiday
by President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War.
In the proclamation, President Lincoln specified that the last
Thursday of each November should be set aside as a day to give
thanks for the founding of our nation.

The fourth Thursday of each November therefore became
a National Holiday; a day for ‘Thanksgiving.’ The celebration is
usually marked with lots of cooking, get-togethers and feasting

As Christians, what is our take on this celebration? Are we truly thankful,
and for what? Do we focus on God in any way? Getting together
with friends and family is a great idea, but let us not forget the
genesis of it, ‘THANKFLNESS TO GOD’

There is so much we need to thank God for, not only on
the last Thursday of every November, but every moment, every
day, and every night. God loves grateful people. He loves to be
acknowledged and appreciated. After He cleansed the ten lepers,
only one came back to say thanks. Jesus’ response, “Were not all
ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?” Luke 17:17 (They probably
were off celebrating).

Stop and think! Are you forgetting to say thanks for something? It’s
not too late to say it.

What are some of the things we need to be thankful for?

• The fact that we are here
• Health, daily provisions, accommodation,
• Gift of salvation
• The Word to help us grow
• The Holy Spirit to comfort, lead and teach us
• Those who minister to us faithfully through preaching,
teaching, music
• Freedom to gather and worship
• Friends, family
• Jobs
• Things that bring us joy and laughter (like children and
grandchildren)
• Those who pray for us and encourage us
• Technology (has enhanced our lives in so many ways)
• Advances in medicine
• The seasons and the beauty we see around us
• Governments and leaders who establish and enforce laws
that protect us
• And so much more!

Let's follow the example of the Psalmist. He admonishes:

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever”
(Psalm 118:1 NIV).
“Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name; make known among
the nations what He has done” (Psalm 105:1 NIV).
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.
Let the redeemed of the Lord [that’s us] say this” (Psalm 107:1-2 NIV).
“Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His
wonderful deeds for men” (Psalm 107:15 NIV).

Let;s give thanks!!