A Thanksgiving Devotional Message - Bishop Alfred Jackson

I was reminded by a friend of an old Negro spiritual that we used to sing growing up.  It says, “If it was for the Lord, tell me what would I do.  He is everything to me.” 

As I reflect upon this I think about all of the things that I have to be thankful for in life.  There are too many to name and if I tried, I am sure I would overlook some.  I am sure you would as well; however as we approach Thanksgiving, it is important to reflect on the goodness of God in our lives; not just the things that He has done today or yesterday but also for the things He has done in your past.  Stop and reflect over your life.  I guarantee you that there are too many things to count. 

Of course, there are many things that we could complain about; however, let’s not take that route.  Begin to thank God for all of the good things that He has done and is doing in your life.  Thank Him for your family, your friends, income, your home, food, clothing, warmth, air, water, salvation, grace, mercy, kindness, patience, the blood of Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the Holy Scriptures.  Thank Him for all that He has done to make your life worth living, to give you hope, to stir faith in you.  Thank Him for your church and our pastor both of who have made significant impacts in your life. 

I echo the words of the Psalmist in Psalm 107: “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercyendures forever. “  And, verse 8, “Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! First Thessalonians 5:18 says, “In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

If the scripture teaches us to do this, then giving thanks apparently has a positive effect on us.  What does it do for us?

Feeling and expressing appreciation is good for us. It reminds us everything we have is a gift from Him.  It keeps our hearts in right relationship to the Giver of all good gifts.  It reminds us of how much we do have.  It changes our perspective in life and helps us realize that we could not even exist without the merciful blessings of God.

These, along with many other things, point out the importance of giving God thanks.  I encourage you today to be thankful and to express that thankfulness to The LORD.  It will bless Him but, most of all; it will change your life.  Have a blessed Thanksgiving season!