ARE YOU THANKFUL?

Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (I)n everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

These are only two of the many verses that could be cited which indicate our need to be a thankful people. We realize that the holiday called Thanksgiving is one rooted in the traditions of men. Its origins will be recounted on the news and in countless TV programs this week. It is good that we have such a holiday, even if it does have more focus on football than on counting our blessings. But many of us will gather with family and/or friends on that day, and someone will lead a prayer of thanks to God for our manifold blessings.

We will then eat turkey or ham with all the trimmings while thinking about or watching some football game, promptly forgetting the things for which all of us should be so grateful. I have a suggestion for all of us to consider as we sit around that table enjoying the bounty God has given us. Surely it is reasonable for us to spend some of that time around the table talking about and expressing our thanks for the loving care and providence we have received during this past year.

As I think of the things for which I am thankful, please permit me to suggest the following as good topics of conversation around our tables this holiday week:

Our families. Many are blessed to still have their parents with them. Be thankful. Some have seen their parents pass from this life. Be thankful for their example and influence in your life. The psalmist says children are a blessing from the Lord (Psalm 127:3). Let it be known how much you love and appreciate them. Brothers, sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, be thankful for all family members who have been a part of your life.

The country in which we live. We often become so disgusted with some facets of modern society that we forget the good, positive qualities of a nation with so many freedoms. This is a good time to remember the following words: “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,” (1 Timothy 2:1-3). Even with its faults, we are truly blessed to live in America in 2007.The church. We are truly blessed as Christians to be able to associate with some of the best people in the world. Most of us have had times in our lives when a Christian brother or sister has been closer, a greater source of support, to us than our physical families.

God. “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15). God the Father devised a plan; God the Son fulfilled the plan; and God the Holy Spirit revealed the plan. That plan makes possible our forgiveness and hope of eternal life.

Yes, indeed, we do have much for which to be thankful.
--Lamar