Thanksgiving: ”The Lord is Good to Me”

Nov 21 / Sunday – Overview  |  Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

The Bible says give thanks in all circumstances. But doesn’t it make sense to thank the Lord that way?

22 / Mon – God’s will?  |  Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Do you want to know what God’s will is for you? Here it is in print. Notice these key words: always, constantly, and in all circumstances. They refer to how we are to: rejoice, pray, and give thanks. Does this seem like a tall order? In this Thanksgiving week, consider your present circumstances. Where could you be more intentional about giving thanks, even in the middle of the mess? When you do, it expresses your trust in God’s ability to work things out. That is faith in action.

23 / Tue – True perspective  |  Read Psalm 103:1-5

The ability to be grateful hinges on having the right perspective. Too often discouragement comes from looking at the short term instead of the bigger picture. For many folks, the things they don’t have are front-and-center. Try an experiment today. Make a list of who or what you would miss the most if it were gone tomorrow. This will put the non-essentials in their proper place and help you see just how richly blessed you really are.

24 / Wed – Overheard  |  Read Acts 16:16-34

Is there any harder time to give thanks and praise God than when you are suffering? But if you will focus on what’s most important, it can change your attitude. Maybe even your circumstances. Paul and Silas began to worship God in spite of the injustice they were enduring. And they were set free, spiritually and then physically. Their choice to be thankful had an eternal impact on the jailer and his household. Will you use your words today to be grateful? You never know who is listening!

25 / Thu – Yesterday, today and tomorrow  |  Read Hebrews 13:8

There are three places you can look for reasons to be grateful…the past, the present and the future. Because the past is past, you probably have a different perspective on what happened back then. In the present, don’t miss what God is doing now. And as you look to the future, faith in the goodness of God and His character can thwart any fear the devil tries to use against you. What are things you can thank God for from your past? What are you grateful for right now? And what are you looking forward to in the future that God has promised you?

26 / Fri – Often, even daily  |  Read Luke 9:16 / John 11:41 / Mark 14:22-26 / Luke 24:30-31

How did Jesus demonstrate his gratitude in these accounts? For what did he give thanks? How did his words and actions impact those around him? How do you demonstrate your thanks to God for his blessings? There are at least five times a day you can do so…when you get up, every time you eat and when you go to bed. Try this for a week and see what happens in your relationship.

27 / Sat – Don’t forget the overlooked ones  |  Read Luke 17:11-16

It is important to praise God for who he is and give thanks for his blessings in your life but don’t forget to thank people too. Who helps you at work or home? Who serves you in a restaurant or at church or in the community? Unfortunately, human beings are more quick to express displeasure than gratitude. Why not buck the trend? Find someone who is not often recognized. Express your appreciation and see what happens. Can you make this a daily goal?