Thanksgiving

The act of giving thanks serves at least two purposes. First, the expression of gratitude honors the person we are thanking, be it the Lord or a friend who has blessed us. Second, giving thanks involves cherishing that which you are showing gratitude for.

Our delight is enriched with thanksgiving.

More importantly, we are commanded to give thanks. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says:

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Consider that in all circumstances it is the will of God that we give thanks. Further, we are to rejoice, even celebrate and pray in those circumstances.

As we step into Thanksgiving, it is unfortunately common for charitable organizations to leverage some degree of guilt to maximize donations. We don’t find this to be the most effective way to build the body of Christ…or even the best way to build our donor base.

Instead, we would simply admonish you to rejoice in God’s good gifts, to nurture a heart of thanksgiving, and to express that thanks to God and to the people he uses to bless us.

The more we delight in God and thank Him for His good gifts, the more we see how abundantly he has blessed us. He is the God of creation who owns everything and knows the number of hairs on your head. This God who knows when a sparrow falls will not lack in knowledge or resources to ensure His children have everything they need.

So, as you sit down to the table this Thanksgiving, don’t feel guilting that you are blessed and others are struggling. Enjoy God’s good gifts! Give him glory as you eat well and fellowship with family and friends.

When you are finished with Thanksgiving and go into the gift giving season, give as the Lord leads. We would love to have your prayers and financial support as we continue the work of ministering to the homeless of Akron. More than that, our hope is that you glorify God with your thanksgiving!

-Hope Farm