While teaching a Sunday School lesson recently, in the spirit of Thanksgiving I asked the class what they were thankful for. One said her home and family. Another said her job. Another said art supplies. The responses were as varied as the students, each one reflecting on her own life. With Thanksgiving days away, I decided to stop and reflect on what I’m thankful for this season.
- Friends and family— It’s easy to take things like our family, friends and home for granted. They are everywhere present and with the familiarity comes a decreased awareness of how important they are to our lives. Yet if tragedy struck, how empty our days would suddenly become without them.
- Writing—Though some days I feel like I’m on the computer just to listen to my fingers tap on the keys, I enjoy what I do. My readers often respond to something I’ve written, either by private message or by response form. Sometimes you make me laugh. Sometimes you bring tears when you share your personal responses. I love being part of your lives this way.
- Country—Even though the news makes me cringe when I listen to it, I still know I live in one of the best nations in the world. I’m free to drive to another state, catch a plane across the country, shop in any store I choose. Freedom is something I shouldn’t take for granted, but it is easy to forget not everyone on the planet can decide the days of their lives.
- Faith—God called me at an early age to be part of His work on earth. Following him has been an adventure. I’ve experienced a lot of circumstances I wouldn’t have chosen for myself. But in His wisdom, He knew the kinds of things I needed to grow and to be made more fit for His kingdom. I give thanks that He cares enough about me to challenge me to grow as a person.
What things are you thankful for this season? Write yourself a list. Share it with a friend. Pray over it with your heavenly Father.
Philippians 4:6 (NKJV) says: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Have a thankful Thanksgiving.
Pat
I regularly record my blessings in a little book. Then it’s a bigger blessing to read the list over again. There is no end to God’s blessings. Difficult times are also blessings, but we can’t see them at the time. We serve a great God!
I just finished writing the story of Samson & Delilah, also the widow of Nain. Another blessing of talent from the Lord.
Have a great Thanksgiving!