As we ease into the Thanksgiving holiday this year, some people wonder if Thanksgiving is still relevant. Modern communication networks put us on the scene of every chaotic event in every state and country – and the chaos that is seen throughout the world spreads sorrow with it….sorrow that tends to cling to our emotions and ask, “Where was God?” But, times like that can actually strengthen, rather than hinder our faith and our hope in God. They are merely times to defend the hope that is within us.
First Peter 3:15 tells us to be ready to defend the hope that is in us. That verse is normally connected with people who question us about why we believe in God because that is exactly what Peter is talking about. But, let’s add another dimension to the way we approach that thought …..we must be ready to defend hope from ourselves…..from questions and doubts that come from our own heart…..from those times when we wonder if God really is hearing our prayers. From times when we wonder if hope is a fantasy. From times we hear the words: Where was God when…
Jesus assures us in Matthew chapters 7:7-11, and Luke 12:6-7, about how much God cares for us …..And, First Peter 3:12 tells us that “The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers.”
Thanksgiving is as relevant today as it was when the Pilgrims gathered together for a feast to celebrate and thank our God for His loving compassion, provision, and protection …to thank our God who is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything
By prayer and supplication,
With thanksgiving
Let your requests be known to God
And the peace of God,
Which surpasses all understanding
Will guard your hearts and minds
Through Christ Jesus
(Philippians 4:6,7)
HAPPY THANKSGIVING