The Christian & Thanksgiving

I love thanksgiving. The fellowship, joy, and great food makes this one of the greatest times of year. Since we are upon this holiday season, why don’t we talk about the idea of Thanksgiving and what we do around this time of year? 

Thanksgiving is a time of year when we come together as families and friends, and take one day to display our thanks. What about the Christian? Should we be thankful only once a year? No, we must “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4, NASB). Although I love setting aside this day to be thankful, we as Christians have a lot to be thankful for throughout our entire lives. God does not want us to be good and gracious individuals only one day out of 365. Let us rejoice always.

Thanksgiving is a time of year when families come together and feast on the fruits of their labors. What about the Christian? The Christian mustn’t look out and take care of only his family and friends. Instead, “Let your gentle spirit be known to all men.” (Philippians 4:5). There are many homeless, poor, sick, distressed, and lonely individuals around this time of year who could use some happiness. Let us, as Christians, reach out to them in any way we can and show them Christ! 

Thanksgiving is a time of year when we specifically pray to God Almighty a prayer of thanks for all the good and wonderful riches and health we have. What about the Christian? The problem is not what we are thankful for, but how we react to other, “less-inviting,” circumstances of life. We tend go back to our old worrying and complaining ways after this day of thanks comes and goes. Instead, in all circumstances, you must “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”  (Philippians 4:6). God wants us to come to Him even when we have petitions and heartaches with thankfulness in our hearts for all He has done for us. After all, we as Christians have a lot to be thankful for. 

Perhaps these thoughts might help us during the busy holiday season, realizing that we are still Christians and need to act like one all year-round. One more point before we close must be made. If we do these things, “…the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7), and with this peace of mind, we definitely have a lot to be thankful for.