The fourth Thursday of each year is set aside for Thanksgiving. A time that most Americans enjoy parades, food, family, football, afternoon naps, and more food. If your family is like ours, it is one of the few days out of the year when we all get together to enjoy each others company. Thanksgiving is also the start of the Christmas season; so these two holidays are some of my favorites.  

    This Thanksgiving, my prayer is, that we truly pause and are thankful. We are a blessed people, but yet often not thankful. We have failed to stop, and really reflect on what God has given us, and how He has provided for us. Take some time this year as you gather with family, and let everyone share just one thing they are thankful for. You will be amazed that when we stop and think, we can realize the blessings that we have from God.

      The Apostle Paul said, “In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” That word everything is huge! That literally means in every area of my life. I truly believe that when my focus is on Jesus Christ, and not this world and all of its stuff, I can give thanks for everything. Our family over the years has had its shares of up and downs, but yet we have so much to be thankful for. We have experienced death, divorce, diagnosis’s and more, yet God is faithful. Focus on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. Be thankful for all His goodness and mercy that will follow you all the days of your life.

       Let everyday be thanksgiving! On Thursday, or Friday of this week, as you celebrate with family and friends, pause, reflect, and have a heart of Thanksgiving for God and His mercy, grace, blessings. Make sure your kids and family understand that we should be thankful for all that God has done and continues to do for us.

    Happy Thanksgiving!

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