An Attitude of Thanksgiving

Once in a while I feel compelled to share a more personal thought; this has been on my mind for the last few weeks. I've been reminded that there's more to "Thanksgiving" than gathering with our family and loved ones for a celebration. Thanksgiving is an all encompassing lifestyle. We can choose to be grateful or not. It's easy to be "thankful" when things are going our way, but a little more difficult when life isn't where we'd like it to be. Health, finances, situations and relationships can all be challenging and strained, and we seem to notice it more through the Holidays.

There have been many times I've wanted to ignore this scripture from 1 Thessalonians that says: "Be joyful always, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Not that our circumstances are something that is "God's will" or that we need to be happy about, but that whatever we are going through we can count on God being with us and leading us. Philippians 4:6 reminds us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with Thanksgiving, present your requests to God." That's what I'm trying to focus on this week. Not to be anxious and under stress with my circumstances, but to be thankful that my Father God has a good plan and is in control.

I'm thankful for all of you... thank you for your care and friendship. I'm praying you have a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving.