Thanksgiving

 Thanksgiving

This is the time of year to celebrate gifts received by showing it in thanks- giving. We have received life, freedom, food, clothing, homes, health, work, and much more. (Thank you, God!) And we can therefore give out of what we have received – love, food, clothing, encouragement, a listening ear, etc.

We may regret choices or mourn losses gone by making it difficult to express thanks. Looking at these there are still many things that deserve appreciation. However, being thankful – like all emotions - is a choice. The promise of Romans 8:28 assures those who love God that all things work together for good – fitting into God’s good purpose for us.

Perhaps you have seen Pollyana? It is an old movie with a young girl who becomes orphaned and then adopted by her aunt. She played the glad game to adjust her attitude toward the disappointments in life. For each situation she found something for herself and others to be glad. It took effort to change her attitude and outlook  into a grateful mindset.

Reflecting on the year gone by, challenge yourself in expressing thanks as a grateful giver to God and then others.

 

Psalm 106:1 ESV Praise the Lord! Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!

by Joy Pedersen