Happy Thanksgiving!

This, of course, is the week we celebrate Thanksgiving. But what exactly are we celebrating? If you've lost a loved-one, gone through financial hardship, or been in poor health, should you be thankful? Yes, you should. The reason we should is because although these situations are painful, they're not final. Knowing this gives us a different perspective. It gives us a reason to appreciate life on a whole new level. Jesus said in this world you WILL HAVE tribulation, but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world.

See, you can't be thankful if you don't know Jesus. No matter what your situation is, what He did for us at Calvary trumps it. He's the only remedy for the various trials of life. So, someone who has had his/her heart broken can still embrace the spirit of this holiday. Instead of hiding away and drowning in sorrow, they can use this time to repair broken relationships, or bless the poor. The point is, with the love of Jesus as motivation, a broken heart can be healed and become whole again.

Finally, if you know someone who because of tragedy or misfortune struggle during this season, advise them to win the battle in their minds. God's word tells us to think on things that are true, pure, and noble (Phil. 4:8). He says to meditate on things that are "praise-worthy". Pastor Chad asked us in Bible study if we ever had to struggle to think negative thoughts. The answer for most was no. Thinking negative thoughts is so easy to do. The enemy of our souls always wants us to see the glass as half empty. In contrast, God desires for us to see His fullness in everything. So whether you have a turkey leg, or a bologna sandwich this Thanksgiving, be grateful. Don't allow traditions that bring no relevance to this season to put pressure on you. Don't eat too much. Don't spend too much. And don't forget to give God praise for all His faithfulness. That's where the true spirit of this week lies.

Happy Thansgiving!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, every good and perfect gift comes from You. So before we sit down to all the things that cater to us, we pause to appreciate You. Thank You for Your love and grace. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for salvation and restoration. We are so grateful. And we look forward to receiving more of You, in Jesus' name. Amen.