Psalm 50:14-15 – Offer to God thanksgiving, And pay your vows to the Most High. Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”

What then does God want from His people? Three things: Thanksgiving. No gift can ever take the place of simple gratitude. Fulfilled vows. “Pay your vows to the Most High,” vows of love, worship, service, and devotion. Fellowship in prayer. “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.” Here we have a wonderful insight into the heart of God. He loves to hear His people pray, and He loves to answer their prayers. He cherishes an intimate, tender relationship between His children and Himself. The Psalmist knows exactly where thanksgiving should start. Gratitude starts with God! Throughout the scriptures we are told to be thankful. The Apostle Paul is a great example of a man who was thankful to God and thankful for the other believers he was called to minister to. He was always willing to pray for them by asking God to provide for all of their needs and giving them His grace and peace.

Challenge:

The person who is always thankful to God, will find themselves able to to be thankful in many circumstances. Whatever your plans are for Thanksgiving be sure to include a time of reflection for all that you are thankful for. I challenge you this Thanksgiving week, to give thanks to the Lord for all that He means to you. Be thankful to God for this day that He has given to you. Show gratitude toward your loved ones, regardless of any past hurts or mistakes. Remember that God has given you your family for a reason. Kiss your babies, hug your children, and tell your family how much you love them. Hold your spouses hand and let them know how much you appreciate all they do. Laugh with your friends as you are making wonderful memories. Hold all these moments, with your loved ones, close to your heart and let them be a beautiful reminder of God’s unconditional love. Be kind to strangers that you see throughout your day, and look for opportunities to lend a helping hand. Do not get so caught up in the business of the season, that you miss the chance to show the Lord’s love to others. May this day be spent thanking your God, serving your Savior, and being a blessing to all. People need to know how much they mean to you, so be sure to share how they have blessed your life. Have a safe, happy and joyful Thanksgiving. God bless you.