I was struck this week by an item I read in a devotional book. It related the story of a young man whose family was harassed by a military coup. It included terrorizing believers in Jesus and killing their farm animals. With their livelihoods taken away the family scattered to various countries. For nine years this young man existed in a refugee camp far from his family. During this time two members of his family died but even though he knew God was with him the young man became despondent. During his time in the refugee camp however the young man earned his Master’s degree from a New Delhi Seminary. Now he pastors people from his country in their new home. “This young man’s testimony is The Lord is my strength and my defense”
As I considered this young man’s situation I had to ask myself what would I do in his situation? Am I thankful for the benefits and blessings God has allowed in my family’s life and in fact directing our paths many times.
Thankfulness is something we each have to decide on. It can depend on what we dwell on. The good or the bad? Yet even in the difficult times we can and should be thankful. Our Scripture tells us that thankfulness is a decision we each must make. I’m thankful for my own health, my family’s health and so much more. Location in the world we live in, living accommodation, as well as the weather conditions we enjoy while so much of the rest of the world is facing extreme temperatures, flooding, forest fires and other extreme weather occurrences. Wars and pestilence are occurring everywhere. Let’s dwell on the reasons to be thankful as presented in the scripture.
Ephesians 5:20
Give thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ
I Thessalonians 5: 16-18
Rejoice evermore.
Pray without ceasing.
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Psalm 103: 2-4
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with loving kindness and tender mercies.
So much to be thankful for, so much to praise him for and ultimately the sacrifice Jesus made for our sins and to provide forgiveness and life eternal with Him in Heaven. Our thankfulness should be endless and with much fervor. Praise God!
Psalm 95:2
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms
May I urge everyone who is able, to find your way to our Breaking of Bread Service in order to show our thankfulness for God’s great gift and Jesus’ sacrifice for each one of us. As we faithfully gather for our weekly services we are showing our Love of God, our thankfulness for his faithfulness and a time to enjoy the presence of God’s Holy spirit in our midst and the company of like minded people. God Bless each one of you in whatever circumstances you find yourself.
