Thanks For What We Have!

There was a coal miner who had become well known for his profanity. But when he became a Christian, he was determined to put such language behind him. His fellow workers, questioning his sincerity, attempted to test his new resolve by stealing his dinner pail. As they all awaited his angry response, including plenty of swearing, they were surprised when he replied, “Praise the Lord! I’ve still got my appetite. They can’t take that away!”

Today, being America’s nationally observed “Thanksgiving Day”, we no doubt are thankful for our appetites as we look across our tables of plenty. For some, however, this may not be the circumstances they enjoy. The circumstances of others differ around the world. Our own circumstances also differ from year to year and situation to situation. And yet, there should always be a focus of THANKSGIVING for the blessings that are ours.

Paul exhorted…
“(16) Rejoice always, (17) pray without ceasing, (18) GIVE THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES; FOR THIS IS THE WILL OF GOD in Christ Jesus for you.” ( I Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV)

This is the spirit of thankfulness we ought to possess. This is the attitude God wills for us to exhibit in our daily lives. We may lose some things. We may not receive all we desire. We may even have things taken from us. But praise God for that which cannot be taken away. A focus on those things will keep us filled with a thankful attitude in all circumstances.

Therefore, as Paul encouraged…
“(17) And WHATEVER YOU DO, in word or deed, DO EVERYTHING in the name of the Lord Jesus, GIVING THANKS to God the Father through him.” ( Colossians 3:17)

Have a great day OF THANKSGIVING!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 11/25/1999 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

See other teEn-MAIL on Thankfulness