On the Thanksgiving holiday, we express gratitude. So, what are you thankful for? — A Home? Job? Family? Friends?
This thanksgiving, be mindful of the fact that not everybody has a place to call their own. Not everybody has a reliable source of income. Some have lost people they love. And, having a home, job, family and friends now, doesn’t mean you will tomorrow. What will you be thankful for then?
What the Psalmist Was Thankful For
Read through the psalms and you’ll soon notice how the psalmist’s thanksgiving went beyond material blessings. Notice in the following verses for how his praise, or thanksgiving, was wrapped up in the person of God — who He is and what He has done.
We praise you, God, we praise you, for your Name is near; people tell of your wonderful deeds. (Ps. 75:1)
It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High … For you make me glad by your deeds, LORD; I sing for joy at what your hands have done. (Ps. 92:1-4)
Rejoice in the LORD, you who are righteous, and praise his holy name. (Ps. 97:12)
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. (Ps. 107:1)
Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind … (Ps. 107:8)
At midnight I rise to give you thanks for your righteous laws. (Ps. 119:62)
A Thanksgiving Challenge
This Thanksgiving, and beyond the holiday, let’s keep our focus on our great God, on the fullness of who He is, rather than looking at what we do or don’t have. When our gratitude centers around Him, like the Apostle Paul, we’ll learn to be content “in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want” (Phil. 4:11-13).