In a few days, most of us will gather around a table with family and friends. More food than we could consume will sit before us, including many traditional favorites (mine is cranberry sauce right out of the can), and right before the meal begins, someone will “Give thanks.” It frequently happens in our home; we hold hands, bow our heads, and we thank God for the food He has provided before nearly every meal.
This week, consider giving thanks to God for much more than food. Psalm 136:1 reads, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His lovingkindness is everlasting.” The Psalmist instructs us to give thanks “for” or because of two reasons. First, “He is good.” Everything about God is good. His mercies, His grace, His justice, His plan by which each of us has the hope of eternal salvation are all wonderful blessings for which we should actively thank God. Second, “His lovingkindness is everlasting.” The goodness and love of God are eternal!
As blessed as we are, physically, our eternal or “everlasting” blessings are far greater. This week, beyond turkey, dressing, and delicious rolls, as we give thanks to God, let’s focus even more on spiritual blessings – His everlasting goodness and lovingkindness – than on that wonderful meal. Give thanks!
Matt Langfield