Are You Thankful?
by Carl B Garner

Did you know that God commands us to "be ye thankful"? We realize that the holiday called Thanksgiving is one rooted in the traditions of men. Its origins will be recounted on the news and in countless TV programs this week. It is good that we have such a holiday, even if it does have more focus on football than on counting our blessings. But many of us will gather with family and/or friends on that day, and someone will lead a prayer of thanks to God for our manifold blessings.

We will then eat turkey or ham with all the trimmings while thinking about or watching some football game, promptly forgetting the things for which all of us should be so grateful. I have a suggestion for all of us to consider as we sit around that table enjoying the bounty God has given us. Surely it is reasonable for us to spend some of that time around the table talking about and expressing our thanks for the loving care and providence we have received during this past year.

It was provided by our God who loves us so much that He gave His "only begotten Son" as our sacrifice for sin. Would it not be of benefit to each individual at that table to hear the rest of us recall the blessings of this past year, the joys and even the sorrows of the months since our last "Thanksgiving" day?

As I think of the things for which I am thankful, please permit me to suggest the following as good topics of conversation around our tables this holiday week:

Our parents and our children. Would it not be a good idea for us grown-ups to recall some memories from our childhood years as we say "thank you" for those who mean so much to us now and who, in the past had such a great part in shaping our lives? And why not say "thank you" for those precious children.

The country in which we live. We often become so disgusted with some facets of modern society that we forget the good, positive qualities of a nation with so many freedoms. This is a good time to remember the following words: "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour," 1 Timothy 2:1-3. Even with its faults, we are truly blessed to live in America in 1998. [Obviously the same truths hold true today - admin@TheBible.net]

The church of Christ. In Christ we have redemption from our sin, the hope of eternal life, guidance for daily living, all spiritual blessings and brothers and sisters who love and care for us. All this and the privilege of taking the gospel to those who are "strangers......having no hope, and without God in the world," Ephesians 2:12.

Husbands and wives who help us with everyday challenges. If you have been taking your spouse for granted these last few months, why not express your thanks to God for them, then tell them how much you appreciate their support and care.

Those who teach our children. For those who take their time and expend their energy to prepare and teach our children the word of God, we are so grateful. It may be the most thankless task in the church. It is so easy to forget what they do and the godly influence they exhibit before their students, our children and grandchildren. How long has it been since you said "thank you" to those who teach your children?

Why not spend Thanksgiving Day giving thanks to Him who is the real source of all blessings, both physical and spiritual, James 1:17. Is that not what this is all about?

This item originally appeared at swsbs.edu