"Oh, that men
would give thanks to the LORD for His goodness, And for His wonderful works to
the children of men!" (Psalm 107:8 NKJ)
Humans suffer with
the delusion that we are the center of the universe, but we are really only a
speck in God’s creation. Yet, among the billions of humans who have ever lived,
God knows you and me. He cares about our lives and what happens to us! Have you
ever considered: Why does God care about me so much? It is something to humbly
consider with thanksgiving.
Of course, the human
experience is not always positive. Real life impacts us with negative,
depressive messages continually. There is no surprise that depression and
hopelessness are the top issues facing the therapeutic community.
When someone asks
me, "Are you allergic to anything?" I always reply, "Only to
negative people!" My ministry motto is Ephesians 4:29. I want to encourage
others, but I must first diligently encourage myself. I promote gratitude to
God for his blessings, but I must be an example of gratitude.
The 19th/20th
century Scottish pastor Alexander Whyte was known for his positive, encouraging
prayers on Sunday mornings. Whyte always gave thanks for something. One Sunday
morning the weather was so gloomy that most church member thought what one
expressed, “Certainly, Pastor Whyte won’t have anything to give thanks for on a
wretched day like this.” But true to form, when he mounted the pulpit and
began, Whyte prayed, “We thank Thee, O God that it is not always like this.”
And that is enough
for which to thank God. It is not always like this! Consider God's goodness and
his works in our lives. Look at the "big" picture of our lives, how
he has directed our decisions, defeated the adversary, and generally protected
us. Tidal waves of gratitude wash over us, because it is not always like this!
Dear Father, thank
you for your works in our lives. Empower us today to express the works of
gratitude in return. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
This Thanksgiving
Day show the works of gratitude,
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