Why Thanksgiving is Not Optional
Thanksgiving is one of our greatest national holidays! To set aside a day for giving thanks to the Lord is one of the best things we can do as a nation, family and people.
More than the Thanksgiving holiday on the Third Thursday in November is the reality of the power of praying according to the Word of God:
1 Timothy 2:1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Notice the type of prayers that Paul exhorts us to offer for "all men," for "kings," and all people who are "in authority"...
Supplications - These are specific requests
Prayers - This is worship of God and speaking to Him through Christ Jesus
Intercessions - This is "standing in the gap" for others, bringing persons to God and bring God to persons.
Giving of thanks - This is exactly what it looks like. We should literally say, "Thank you Lord for ________________________" (add the names).
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
Let me also encourage you to pray for all civil authorities and public servants from the president to police officers on the street. The promise is the
t prayer can help set conditions so that we can live a "peaceable and quiet life." Also remember persecuted believers in all parts of the world. Remember your families and loved ones who have supported you.
One of the most important reasons for giving thanks is to keep your heart clear of darkness. People who do not give thanks refuse God's light, and open themselves to darkness.
Romans 1:21, "Because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened."
So give thanks to God today and everyday!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU AND YOURS!
