"give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Today is Thanksgiving of, perhaps, one of the most interesting and controversial years in recent memory. Some will be gathering, some won't, and some are restricted from it. I see many giving opinions, yet I will not, one way or the other; I will simply say this: wherever you find yourself, give thanks in each and every circumstance. This is God's will in Jesus Christ. The Bible does not promise us health or wealth. It does not promise us peaceful seas, or an easy path. If we're going to follow Jesus, we're promised that life will NOT be easy. My prayer for you is that in each and every circumstance, you can stay focused on Jesus, and even be grateful. Some of us have lost family members, so this time of year is difficult, some of us are in financial uncertainty or hardship, some are worried about our relationships, and other factors besides. Stay focused on Jesus, and do not turn your eyes from Him for anything. Whether fair weather, or bleak storms, keep your eyes upon Him. This is the key to contentment, and, indeed, gratitude. Through Jesus, we can weather any storm, and through Him we can find peace and even gratitude in each and every circumstance. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.
Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.
