THANKSGIVING 2011

The fall season normally makes us think of the upcoming holiday season.

As we draw nearer to Thanksgiving Day, let us be reminded that this holiday serves as a reminder to us that we are to have thankful hearts all the time, not just during Thanksgiving.  Having a spirit of thankfulness is such a wonderful blessing. 

Gratitude is so important to God. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 states: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  God wants us to be thankful to Him for everything.  Sometimes we can get into a spot where our perspectives are negative and we tend to murmur and complain, but God wants us to have a heart that is swelled with gratitude.

We have so much to be grateful for. We ought to be thankful for the air that we breathe, food to eat, a place to call home, plenty of water, family, friends, and so much more.  God has definitely bestowed blessings all around us and if we will simply open our heart and eyes to see we will be eternally grateful.

God freely gives His love and salvation to us. In turn we ought to be grateful and bestow that kind of love upon others.  As this season of Thanksgiving approaches, let us be reminded to be thankful for everything and look for ways that we can be servants.  Look at those around you and see how you can be a blessing to them. 

This Thanksgiving and all throughout the holiday season count your blessings and be a blessing unto others.  Invite friends and family over for dinner, take the kids to the soup kitchen, make a visit to a nursing home, or buy some groceries and bless a family in need. 

You can also make a gratitude list to serve as a reminder of all the things that you are grateful for.  Post it in a place that you can see everyday so you can be reminded of what a great life you have!  Being grateful can bring you peace and joy and God’s will is that we be full of love, peace, and joy.

This Thanksgiving, no matter what you are going through, give thanks to God.  Even if you are going through a tough time, thank God for the times that He has helped you through other difficult times and for all of the good things in your life.  Keeping your eyes on Him and off of your own circumstances will allow your heart to open and be enlarged.  Happy Thanksgiving!

Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Tony

P.S.  Don't forget to go online and register for Thanksgiving Dinner 2011.  

It's all covered dish!  Food, Games & Family Fun.