Meditation: Let’s Give Thanks to God

Philippians 4:6-7

What do you usually do on Thanksgiving Day? A turkey comes to mind. Of course, the turkey is the center of the traditional celebration. Some of our tables will be surrounded by friends and family as they offer prayers of thanksgiving and gratitude to God for all the food they are about to eat and the company of people who care for each other. After the delicious meal, some will be watching the football game while others will be planning their Christmas shopping. As Thanksgiving Day comes to an end, we must not forget that our gratitude to God should never end. 

We are grateful when we acknowledge God as the source of all our blessings. We give thanks to God as a body when the church gathers in worship or during our daily devotional times. But also, when we let everyday activities become reasons to thank God; no matter how simple these activities may be.

We develop our gratitude for God as we remember the good things that God has done for us. Here are some reasons to be grateful:

God loves us unconditionally.

God chose us before the creation of the world.

We are never distant from God’s presence.

We have God's divine protection each day.

We have an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.

We have the peace of God, which transcends all understanding.

We have an eternal home in heaven and the healing promise of the resurrection.

To develop our thanksgiving, we can pay more attention to the simple blessings that God gives us every day. Having food to eat, a place to sleep, friends who encourage us, a church where we can serve are all reasons to be thankful. So often we take things for granted, but God provides all these and many more for us. May God be the first reason for our gratitude.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.