From the Pulpit: A thankful life
By:
Pastor Kirk Strand, Brandon Valley Assembly of God
“In everything give THANKS for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” I Thes. 5:18
Thanksgiving as a holiday had been randomly celebrated in America since the days of George Washington. Some years yes, others no. This seemed to depend on the mood of the president as well as the country.
In 1863, during the Civil War, it was Abraham Lincoln who declared Thanksgiving to be a permanent national holiday. He stated simply, “Thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwells in the heavens.”
On the battlefield, the union army celebrated the date. In response, the southern armies decided to make this a day of rest. And history records no shots or cannons were fired on that day.
In the weeks ahead, I will give you four thoughts from scripture on the practice of being thankful.
The first is simple the statement written by Paul. “In everything give thanks.” So simple, to the point. To a people who are hurting, or rejoicing, and anything in between. At all times, in all circumstances, be a person who gives thanks.
The second part of this verse, adds a twist. “... for this is the WILL OF GOD in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
People may wonder, what is God’s will or purpose for me? Paul makes it simple …start with being thankful. And who knows, like the day of the Civil War, perhaps you will find peace in the middle of a storm.
