1 Thessalonians 5:18 – Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (NIV)

Giving thanks doesn't rate highly in the socially-networked world where everyone is texting — very often to the person sitting next to them. Too many of us are so busy being "connected" that we have become disengaged from the world around us.

My awareness of the need to be thankful increased following a recent trip to my primary physician, a fine Christian man. I came prepared with a litany of complaints and questions regarding my medical status; it had been awhile since our last visit. After a period of discussion and a review of recent lab results, the doctor referred me to a thought-provoking verse:

2 Corinthians 4:16 – Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. (NIV)

Spiritual renewal began that day following my doctor's visit. My reflections took this path: What does God want from us? The precious Holy Spirit revealed that He desires a thankful heart. Both Old and New Testaments emphasize the fact that God wants thankfulness. As Christians, we are receiving something constantly from God. Therefore, let us offer Him a sacrifice of thanksgiving.

Psalm 116:17 – I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the Lord. (NKJV)

As we celebrate this Thanksgiving, let us remember to make time to specifically thank the Lord for all of the many blessings that He has given us. The hymn, "Thanks to God" could be used as a resource to enhance our thanksgiving time with family and friends (verse 1 of 3):

Thanks to God for my Redeemer,
Thanks for all Thou dost provide!
Thanks for times now but a memory,
Thanks for Jesus by my side!
Thanks for pleasant, balmy springtime,
Thanks for dark and stormy fall!
Thanks for tears by now forgotten,
Thanks for peace within my soul!
       – August L. Storm

Colossians 2:6-7 – So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. (NIV)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we offer to You our thanksgiving and praise for Your blessings, which are constantly showered upon us through Jesus Christ our Lord, in Whose name we pray. Amen.

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