Introduction: From 1620 until 2025 THANKSGIVING has been special. But actually, THANKSGIVING can be traced back to the beginning of creation where God made the heavens and the earth. Certainly, Adam and Eve were recipients of the BLESSINGS from the Lord, as we are today. God has been GOOD!
There are several passages of Scripture that remind us to be THANKFUL for all of the BLESSINGS of life. For instance, the Psalmist wrote these words in Psa. 100:4–5, “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.”
Whereas this speaks of real worship, it reveals the proper attitude of our hearts. Thanksgiving should be given freely and happily to the Lord for all His benefits and blessings. Are you thankful?
Another wonderful passage in the Bible concerning this subject of being THANKFUL is found in Psalm 107:22, “And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.”
In other words, having an ATTITUDE of GRATITUDE should be a daily practice, no matter what. Honestly, most of us would have to confess that unfortunately that is not the case. Instead, we complain at times in spite of the GOODNESS of GOD!Is that true of you? How about when things go wrong?
Next, Paul wrote to Timothy under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and explains how we are to be THANKFUL. “Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.” (1 Tim. 4:3-5)
Apparently, as you can read, there was some false information going around concerning legalistic practices, much like today. Whereas this is not to be used as an excuse to sinful living at all. On the contrary, rather, this is an admonition to give THANKS for everything, more specifically what we eat or in regards to marriage.
Interesting to note, the word here used for “meats” is βρῶμα (brōma) — which means “whatever is eaten,” and may refer to animal flesh, fish, fruit, or vegetables.
Eating certain meats became an issue throughout the early Churches due to the restrictive Jewish laws; in addition, some meats were offered to idols. Therefore, it became a stumbling block to weaker CHRISTians. God the Holy Spirit led Paul to warn the stronger CHRISTIANS not to eat it if it was a stumbling block. But besides that, they were to give THANKS.
So, concluding our brief devotion on being THANKFUL, what is your attitude toward life? Will you remember to give THANKS? Why not take time right now to BLESS the Lord with THANKSGIVING?
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
