That She May Know

Happy Thanksgiving week, friends! I love this week and all it entails. It’s a time to pause & reflect on ALL we have to be thankful for and it ushers in the most wonderful time of year.

As a child, I remember the wonder of the holiday season. The simple joys without the harsh realities of life. But as I’ve grown, I’ve experienced a little bit more life. Some seasons are great while others prove more difficult. Some years at Thanksgiving, it’s easy to “feel” thankful, while others can be more challenging to find that gratefulness in our hearts because it’s been dimmed by current circumstances. But what I’m learning is this: No matter the season, good or bad, there is always something to be thankful for because of Christ.

No matter the season, good or bad, there is always something to be thankful for because of Christ.

Sure, it’s easy to be thankful when life is good and things are going “our way.” But what about all those other times when life is rocky, uncertain, or flat out difficult? Well, according to Scripture, there are several examples of people who are thankful under all different circumstances.

There are numerous verses in Scripture that talk about thankfulness. The Psalms mentioning it the most. Many Psalms that David wrote were during the difficult, dark moments of His life. Yet He always praised and pointed back to the goodness of God.

Let’s look at Mary. She no doubt knew the weight of her circumstances. She was a pregnant virgin. Yet knowing she was a chosen vessel to carry the Son of God, she chose thankfulness. Luke 1:46-55 is Mary’s song. And it is a beautiful testimony that shows even when circumstances aren’t easy or fully understood, thankfulness is always a proper response.

And what about the story of the ten leper’s. Luke 17:11-19 tells the familiar story of the ten leper’s who were healed by Jesus but only ONE returned to say thanks and give praise. This hits close to home. How many times am I quick to ask God for things and see Him answer, only to forget to thank Him for those very things? Ouch.

Thankfulness is evidence of the condition of our heart. Realizing that things may not be perfect, times may be hard, but God is still good regardless. If we have nothing else in this life, salvation in Christ is enough. And that should bring an attitude of thanksgiving, always.

If we have nothing else in this life, salvation in Christ is enough. And that should bring an attitude of thanksgiving, always.

Even so, in times of difficultly or not, may we remember examples in Scripture and move forward with a thankful heart. Not just at Thanksgiving, but year round! Have a great week, y’all!