One of my friends who attends a bible study I lead was opening us in prayer and I was struck with a truth that he prayed.  He thanked God that Thanksgiving had not gathered the materialistic response that has surrounded Christmas.  I too rejoiced in this truth and thanked the Lord that not all holidays have been overtaken by greeting card companies and media outlets.  Why is this true?

If you consider the day and what it celebrates, it’s a little more difficult for Thanksgiving to be overtaken.  If I consider that being content and thanking God for what we have, it’s hard to desire more.  Now in reality I know it may be that the downfall of Thanksgiving is probably gluttony, but even in that if we are truly content, maybe we won’t stuff our faces as much (also this is an area of self-control, as is most obedience).

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 states, “Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  Can’t get around the “will of God” part can we?  So Thanksgiving is what we ought to always be practicing.  I am truly grateful, but I wonder how often I live like it.  I often am thankful when I pause to consider all that God has given me, especially salvation (Romans 8:1), but how often do I live in this?

I’m really enjoying this day, with family and friends.  I am thankful for the Triune God, for Christ’s death and resurrection, for my family and my church body.  Please Lord, let me live with gratefulness each day.