I like this time of year when it starts getting cooler and the leaves start changing color. When I see all the beautiful colors of the leaves, I am reminded of the splendor, majesty and goodness of God.
Due to our fast-paced culture and busy schedules, many times it is difficult to think about God and be thankful. Also if we have never accepted Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord we may not have an attitude of gratitude: John 10:10 - The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Matthew 6:33 - But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
John 1:4 - In him was life, and the life was the light of men.
1 John 5:11 - And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
As I look back and think about how my parents provided for me when I was growing up - like a roof over my head, clothes on my back, bread on the table, shoes on my feet, care when I was sick, and a home with love - it makes me realize that I was very blessed.
They have both gone on to be with the Lord, but I wished I had spent more time thanking them and appreciating all they did for me. My grandmother used to sing a little song, “count your many blessings, name them one by one.”
This holiday season, let's us enjoy and give thanks for the many blessings God has given us. Here are some verses that give reminders as to why we are to be thankful: Psalm 75:1 - We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We recount your wondrous deeds.
Psalm 107:1, 2, 15, 22, 43 - 1 Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! 2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble... 15 Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! 22 And let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving, and tell of his deeds in songs of joy! 43 Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord.
Psalm 30:4 - Sing praises to the Lord, O you his saints, and give thanks to his holy name.
Psalm 35:18 - I will thank you in the great congregation; in the mighty throng I will praise you.
Psalm 97:12 - Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!
Colossians 3:16 - Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
See you in Church next Sunday.
(All Scripture references ESV)