November 27, 2024
by Pastor Chuck SwindollScriptures: 1 Thessalonians 5:18
IT'S ALMOST THANKSGIVING . . . MY FAVORITE. When it comes to holidays, this one tops 'em all, in my opinion.
IT'S ALMOST THANKSGIVING . . . MY FAVORITE. When it comes to holidays, this
one tops 'em all, in my opinion. I prefer it because it is so healthy, so
encouraging, so valuable . . . and so understated. I prefer it because
there are no jingles to sing, commercials to endure, gifts to buy, places
to go, or meetings to attend—just be thankful. Just look up, look around,
look within, and say, "Thank you, Lord."
So let's start early with our Thanksgiving this year. Maybe these few
thoughts will stimulate you to give God your thanks in greater abundance.
Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong
to Christ Jesus.
1 THESSALONIANS 5:18
Looking up . . . thank You, Lord: for Your sovereign control over our
circumstances, for Your gentle compassion in our sorrows, for Your
consistent faithfulness through our highs and lows, for Your grace that
removes our guilt, for Your love that holds us close.
Thank You, Lord, for all You are, all You do, all You say. If we were
unable to look up into Your face, Thanksgiving would be just another day.
Looking around . . . thank You, Lord: for our close family ties, so
affirming, so enjoyable; for our marvelous church, so many gifted and
loving servants; for our strong heritage, so wholesome, so wise; for the
joy of seeing our children grow and learn; for an occupation that enables
us to make a living; for the embrace of a friend who really cares.
Thank You, Lord, for all You provide in such variety and incredible
abundance. By just looking around, we are made aware of how rich we are
this Thanksgiving.
Looking within . . . thank You, Lord: for eyes that see the beauty of Your
creation, for ears that receive the world of sounds surrounding us, for the
special stimulation of taste and touch, for hands to work with and legs to
walk with, for a sense of humor that brought healing and hope, for the
sheer delight of knowing and walking with You!
Thanksgiving is my favorite. Now you see why.