“Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:2

As Thanksgiving is upon us, I want you and me to ask ourselves three things:

Have I been meditating on all God has done in my life and others? Does my meditation compel me to give thanks? If so, how do I express my gratitude?

In this day and age, there are so many distractions, affairs of this world, and fleeting affections we could fix our gaze on. What if we shifted our gaze on the mighty and wondrous works of God instead? Earthly things will come and go, but the faithfulness of our God never will. We can find total peace in this truth!

“Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” Psalms 118:1

You and I have much to thank the Lord for, but we tend to forget to give thanks. Let’s ponder some wonderful things God has blessed us with.

You have been called out of darkness and into light. You are cleansed from all sin and shame. You are clothed in righteousness. You have the gift of His ever-dwelling presence. Your past has been washed, cleansed, and restored. You have been given a new heart for Christ to dwell in. You are given the privilege to know God through His holy word. You are the apple of His eye.

Now, my hope for you, friend, is that you would bless God for all the earthly and tangible things He has blessed you with. More importantly, meditate on all the ways He has renewed you. When wholly focused on heavenly gifts, we are much more grateful for what we have on earth.

Prayer:

Dear Good and Gracious Father,

I love Your presence. I long to know You more, and I am joyful knowing that You have rescued me from the pit. Lord, I have much to thank You for, yet sometimes I take those things for granted. As the holidays come around, would You enlighten me? Show me what it means to be thankful for You and all You choose to give.

I pray all of this in Jesus’ Name, Amen.