Happy Thanksgiving!!!
As you read this short blog, I want you to begin to meditate on the things that you are thankful for. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because it gives us all an opportunity to reflect on the amazing things that God has done and all the things He has promised. Even for many of us who have gone through unfavorable experiences, you will find that the more you reflect on the goodness of God, the more you will begin to uncover the plethora of things to be thankful for.
In Ephesians 5:20, Apostle Paul states, "Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." When reading this verse, I recognize that being thankful and giving thanks is not tied to a condition. Whether the condition is good or bad, as believers, we are called to give thanks "ALWAYS" and for "EVERYTHING." Now, why do you think that is? Is it because we serve a God that cannot function without our praises? To the contrary, it is us who cannot function without offering up praises of thanksgiving.
One of the things that the enemy banks on is our forgetfulness. The more we forget all that God has done, all that He has provided, and all that He has protected us from, the easier it is for us to reject God and turn away from the faith. When we give thanks, it forces us to redirect our focus from the could, would, should of things in life to the reality of what is.
What is...thankfulness realigns us with the reality that God is in control. The fact that you are breathing is something to be thankful for...look how God has preserved you. When you give thanks, you are reminded of all the battles you've won. When you give thanks, it changes your mood leading you to dwell on the brighter things of life.
According to an article published by Harvard Health Publishing, giving thanks or expressing gratitude is associated with one's well-being. They discovered that individuals felt happier and had a more positive attitude. When writing about ways to cultivate gratitude, prayer was mentioned as a way in which people cultivate gratitude. There is so much to be thankful for. If you cannot thank God for anything specific, just begin to repeat "Thank you, Lord," and watch the Holy Spirit bring back to your remembrance all that God has done.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Reference Article: Giving thanks can make you happier
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