The Greatest Gift: Giving Thanks for God’s Blessings
Here in the USA, we have the tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving. It is a day to get together with family, enjoy a traditional dish, and give thanks for what we have. Thanksgiving Day is a good tradition and an excellent reminder to be grateful. Other countries around the world also celebrate Thanksgiving.
As we celebrate Thanksgiving this year, let’s remember to mark the greatest gifts God has given us – forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. The Bible tells us that the punishment for sin is death – no matter how big or small the sin. We deserve death because of our sins.
Yet, God, in His great mercy, said, “No, I don’t want you to die. I will send my send to take your place.” Innocent and perfect, Jesus took our sins and was considered a criminal and a sinner. He died our death. Jesus rose from the dead on the third day and ascended into heaven. By trusting that the sacrifice He made was for you and me, you and I can receive the forgiveness of sins he purchased for us by his death.
Repentance and confession of sins is how we receive Jesus’ forgiveness. Repentance means stopping our evil ways and turning toward God. Repentance goes along with the confession of our sins. Confession of sins is recognizing that we have disobeyed God’s commandments – we didn’t love God or our neighbors. Once we confess our sins to God, God promises to forgive and cleanse us from all evil. Forgiving is God’s doing. Once we have done that, we are in the right relationship with God.
If you are not sure that your sins have been forgiven, that Jesus died on the cross for you, or that you are in a right relationship with God, speak to me. Send me a text, and we can chat.
Friends, the Word of God – the Bible – encourages us always to be thankful and grateful for all the things we have because all those things come from God. Let’s give thanks for God’s gift to us – Jesus and all the benefits we have received through his life, death, and resurrection.
Reflect on the abundant blessings of God:
Philippians 4:6-7(NIV)
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.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18(NIV)
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Psalm 28:7 (NIV)
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.
1 Chronicles 16:34 (NIV)
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Colossians 3:15 (NIV)
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Colossians 4:2 (NIV)
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
1 Timothy 4:4-5 (NIV)
For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.
Have a happy Thanksgiving friends.
Comment, Like and let me know what are you thankful for.
Thank you Pastor Dan!
And a very Happy Thanksgiving to you and your beautiful family.
I’m very thankful for my health and the health of all my dear friends 🙏
Also thanking the Lord for you and for our beautiful church.
Have a wonderful day.
Margaret E. Ives.