November #jammed: Gracious.
Day 333: Thankful for Thanksgiving.
How can we give God enough thanks for you for all the joy you give us? 1 Thessalonians 3:9
The table is full every year. Two big turkeys, pounds of mashed potatoes, vegetables, pies
and buttery rolls. The days it takes to plan and the hours to prepare and cook are always worth the compliments heard around the table on table.
Thanksgiving is a holiday unique to Americans. It celebrates the humble start of what we still call our home. It can be easy to assume credit for all that this country has accomplished and everything we have worked for. It can become more about receiving credit than giving thanks, if we’re not careful Who we are giving thanks to.
Today’s verse is a celebration of thanks! Paul has invested his life in spreading the good news of the gospel …and here in the moment, the fruits of his labor were good.
“Paul’s work of evangelism had been effective. He might have congratulated himself on work well done, but instead he thanked God for the joy he had from what God had done.” NIV Study Bible Notes
He couldn’t have said, “thanks to me! Look what I’ve done for you!” But he didn’t. He knew the power behind His calling, and gave thanks faithfully to the One who inspired him to spread that Love.
We can take a note from Paul in how to be thankful. God is bigger than politics, lifestyle choices, and lofty career accomplishments. Everything we receive happens under His hand. Our efforts are not solely our own, and our Creator has given us all unique abilities and talents. True gratitude honors the Author of life, and the Savior who died for our freedom.
Father, Praise You for the holiday of Thanksgiving, and all it reminds us to be thankful for. Forgive us for taking credit for Your blessings, and help us to lift up our hearts in thankful praise to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Get the conversation started by commenting below, and let’s encourage one another as we face life in 2017 armed with grace!
#greatgrace17
Happy Word-ing,
Megs
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