5 Reasons to be Thankful
Some of us will be overcome with gratitude as we sit among family and friends and enjoy our Thanksgiving meal this week. For others, we get so busy with the preparations that we forget to slow down and savor God’s faithfulness. And for some, it’s such a season of adversity that we struggle to find gratitude in the middle of our challenges. Wherever you are on the spectrum, I hope you will see that God is faithful because…
1. You made it through the last 11 months…Whether your last 11 months have been smooth sailing or treacherous, you have made it to today. As I type, I cannot even remember January through June! I do know that since August right up until the present, it has been a tough season. Can you relate? The truth is, none of us can change yesterday or do anything about tomorrow until it gets here. Let's be grateful we made it to today.
2. God promises to never leave nor forsake us…If you are in a season of life where you are surrounded by friends and family, then we can easily appreciate the community that we have. If, however, there are people who are gone from your life – holes that have yet to be filled – you can cry out to the Lord in gratitude, knowing that “He has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5).
3. God is not done growing you...The man who discipled my husband would always say, “God is growing you as fast as He can without killing you.” Some days, I feel like He is stretching me perilously tight. Yet it is so good to know that He is not going to leave me like I am. If Paul can be sure, then we can also be sure “that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).
4. We are warm and fed…We can want for many things. My daughter recently discovered that clothes shopping can be fun. I agree with her, but I’ve told her that I’ve had to learn to steer clear of clothing stores to protect myself from the temptation to think I “need” something. If you are able to read this, there is a very high probability that your basic needs have been met. We have shelter, heat, and food. May we not lose sight that we are not in need.
5. I don't have to worry about tomorrow…I love how God’s Word leaves so little uncovered. The Lord knows our tendency to overthink and stress. It’s such a common struggle that He gave us instructions: “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself” (Matthew 6:34). Breathe in and breathe out. Just be thankful for this day.
May God give you His perspective as you prepare for Thanksgiving. Allow yourself to be specific in your gratitude. Generic gratitude is rarely very grateful. Even the most challenging circumstances occur with a loving Father fighting for us.I would love to hear what you are thankful for this Thanksgiving.