Thanksgiving...

I'm a huge fan of having a holiday to celebrate being thankful. And not just because of all the turkey and stuffing! Although the American holiday of Thanksgiving is only celebrated on one day - the last Thursday of November each year - I really think we can take a lot from this holiday and implement a spirit of thankfulness in our daily lives.

I have had my struggles here in Indiana and there have been some difficult adjustments to be made, but in all things I am thankful to God that Candace and I are together again. The Bible has a lot to say on thankfulness, too. Here are just a handful of verses, all taken from the NIV version:

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
    his love endures forever.

(Psalm 118: 1) 

Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

 (Ephesians 5: 19b - 20)

 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

(Philippians 4: 6 - 7)

 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

 (Colossians 3: 15 - 17)

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

(1 Thessalonians 5: 16 - 18)

I trust that you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and that you continue to be thankful every day of the year - no matter your circumstances or your location on this world. Give thanks in all circumstances! :-)