Thanksgiving Day is upon us. It is the season for Americans to gather with families for this special holiday. This holiday, families meet to enjoy a traditional meal, and sharing God’s blessings over the past year. The thanksgiving atmosphere is warm and friendly. The smell of the aroma is breath-taking. They spread a long table with luscious food: turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, potatoes, and lots of desserts. After the meal, children play, women talk, and the men watch a football game. Americans celebrate traditionally, but is there more than gratitude for God’s blessings? Let’s explore why we give thanks to God on this day.
The first thanksgiving was about the Pilgrim’s journey. They journeyed to a new land and separated from the Church of England. They wanted better lives, including more religious freedom. In moving, they made a settlement into the country of Holland.
On their 66-day journey, they faced boisterous winds to settle in a new world. The strong winds forced them to detour from their original plan to land in New York City, and they took a different route, making their way towards Cape Cod on November 21.
Eventually, they made their way and settled at Plymouth Harbor, Massachusetts. It was a harsh cold winter for them after traveling so far while lacking the resources needed for survival. Many died because of improper housing, heating, and poor nutrition. New Year brought death to most, leaving only 53 of 102. Instead of returning to England, these felt the call to remain as they believed to stay was God’s will for them.
The pilgrims met the Native Indians. In March 1621, they made a treaty of mutual protection with the Pokanoket Wampanoag leader. He came to live with the colonists and instructed them in growing Indian corn. His tribe, the Wampanoag Native Indians, joined with the Pilgrims to celebrate a harvest feast. They were grateful for survival and protection.
Later, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, while encouraging Americans to pause and reflect on their blessings amid the trials of the Civil War.
This Thanksgiving, we appreciate the sacrifices made by those who sailed for a new country, following God’s guidance. Without their courage and faithfulness, where would we be today, as we enjoy the blessings and freedom they brought to our country?
Below Are Four Reasons To Be Thankful This Thanksgiving:
- God’s Gracious Provision for Us
Thanksgiving is a holiday to praise God for His goodness towards us. God is gracious to make provision in so many ways. It is our God who calls Himself Jehovah Jireh, which means our Provider (Genesis 22:14). There are many instances to witness throughout the year just how gracious our Lord is to make provision one after another, seeing our needs that He meets. His promises are trustworthy as He is faithful to do those things He promises according to His Word. Paul’s words remind us, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19.) As you celebrate Thanksgiving, reflect on His provision, whether through finances, opportunities, or moments of unexpected grace.
How has God provided for you this year, even in unexpected ways?
- The Gift of Relationships
One highlight of the season is to spend quality time with family and friends while sharing God’s blessings. It is God’s design for our lives to have meaningful relationships that revolve around trust. We strive to follow God’s example to love one another as God loves us. This high standard seems impossible to achieve, yet we fail miserably. It is our thinking to forget they are God’s gift to us, therefore, in times of complaining, we should express gratitude and thanks. Understand their perspective, be forgiving. Never settle for the last word. Be humble, forgiving, like our Father in heaven. Gratitude helps develop a mindset of seeing good in others, extending this vision to the world. To be thankful for all God gives us is a right pathway to feel good about ourselves and our relationships. Thankfulness increases a rich bond in relationships.
Who in your life are you particularly thankful for, and how can you show them appreciation?
- The Power of Redemption
Above all, Thanksgiving is an opportunity to celebrate the greatest gift of all: salvation through Jesus Christ. Redemption gives us reason to rejoice. Remember, it is Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross for sins that secures forgiveness and eternal life. This is a truth that should fill our hearts with gratitude for His grace, bearing our sins in His body, dying a criminal’s death for us. We are grateful for His resurrection that secures our salvation. Without His sacrifice and the power of the cross, we could never know His redeeming power that saves us. As Paul exclaimed: “Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift” (2 Corinthians 9:15).
Reflect on the transformative power of grace and share your gratitude with others as a testimony of God’s love.
How does understanding the gift of salvation shape your daily attitude of gratitude?
- The Promise of Peace
As we ponder upon world events, our hearts faint at the chaos and uncertainty. We wonder what this world is coming to, but we need not worry or fear. Jesus is in control. When we focus our attention on world happenings—wars, crime, economy, inflation, and many more, there is reason to feel disillusionment and despair. Jesus teaches: we’re not to have worries or anxieties about these things, but to find our trust in His provision (Matthew 6:31-34). When our minds are in turmoil, there is One who gives ultimate peace as we rest in His provision. Jesus invites us to come and enjoy the rhythm of His grace by guarding our minds through Him (Philippians 4:7). There is no peace outside of Christ, for He is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). His peace is so marvelous that it passes all understanding. As we celebrate this Thanksgiving, embrace the stillness that comes from trusting in God’s sovereignty. The psalmist reminds us, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.” (Psalm 28:7.) Amid life’s challenges, gratitude for God’s peace can center our hearts and remind us of His unfailing presence.
What specific situations has God brought you peace in this year?
Cultivating Thankfulness Year-Round
As we gather around the table, let’s give thanks to Him. We should thank Him for all His blessings, both physical and spiritual. By having a spirit of thankfulness, we align our hearts with God’s will, drawing closer to Him. In thankfulness, consider keeping a gratitude journal or dedicating time each day to thank Him. We’re to give thanks, not only during the season, but throughout the year. Thanksgiving is not just a day; it’s a lifestyle that honors God and spreads His light in the world.
Prayer
Gracious Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude. Thank you for Your provision, the gift of relationships, the hope of redemption and the peace that only You can provide. Help us cultivate a spirit of thankfulness, not just during this holiday season, but every day. May our gratitude glorify You and encourage others to see Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
/
Strength For Your Christian Walk
Get this downloadable e-book:
“Accepting That God Loves Me – Even When I Don’t Love Myself”
You’ll be encouraged to change your mindset about yourself through the lens of the Scriptures. Just enter your name and email address at the link below and I’ll send you the eBook and the “Your Faith Journey Insights” newsletter with inspirational devotionals, recipes, and more..
