Everyday is Thanksgiving!

"I have felt for a long time that one of the particular temptations of the maturing Christian is the danger of getting accustomed to his blessings. Like the world traveler who has been everywhere and seen everything, the maturing Christian is in danger of taking his blessings for granted and getting so accustomed to them that they fail to excite him as they once did."  -Warren Wiersbe, God Isn't In a Hurry, (Baker Books; Grand Rapids, MI, 1994), pp. 77-78

We, as human beings, are subject to resentfulness. Even worse, we're also in the habit of of lusting for what we don't have. That is precisely why giving thanks regularly reminds us just how blessed we are. When we concentrate on our blessings, instead of our needs, we are much more peaceful, and content.

By thanking God for the things we fail to appreciate, our outlook on life changes. It suddenly begins to dawn on us that our very existence depends on God's merciful blessings (1 Thessalonians 5:18; James 1:12; 2 Corinthians 12:9). Besides, expressing our feelings of appreciation for His blessings is healthy for us.

It's quite possible to have a thankful heart towards God, even though we might not feel thankful for the situation. It's also entirely possible to be mournful, hurt, or angry at sin, yet be thankful, as well. The Bible calls this a "sacrifice of praise" (Hebrews 13:15).

Dear friends, offering thanks to God keeps us (our hearts) in a close relationship with Him. Not only that, it saves us from a multitude of unhealthy emotions and attitudes that will deprive us of the peace God wants us to feel (Philippians 4:6-7). Without gratefulness, we turn arrogant and self-centered. At that point, we start taking credit for our own blessings. This, I can tell you, is not a good place to be!

Billy Graham said, "Thanksgiving--the giving of thanks--to God for all His blessings should be one of the most distinctive  marks of the believer in Jesus Christ. We must not allow a spirit of ingratitude to harden our heart and chill our relationship with God and others." I couldn't agree more.

Around the world, special days of the year are set aside for thanksgiving (or giving thanks). Fortunately, for the Christian, every day can be a day of thanksgiving. Don't let another day pass by without giving thanks to God the Father for His loving generosity (Ephesians 5:20).

Scripture: Psalm 95:2-3; Ephesians 1:15-16; 1 Timothy 4:4-5; 1 Chronicles 16:34; Colossians 3:17

Prayer: Dear Lord, I know that I don't always tell you how thankful I am for everything you provide and do for me. Please forgive my shortcomings and self-centeredness, and accept my loving praise to You. I am truly thankful for the blessings which you have given me, not only today, but every day. Amen

May God bless you!

Sarah