“…so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.”
(2 Corinthians 4:15)

Part One

The Bible says we are to continually be being, “… filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18) Unless there is a restrictive dam of indifference, fear, or intentionally chosen sin – our love for God will steadily flow producing quiet inner peace and contentment. The Bible therefore teaches us to regularly, “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name.” (Psalm 100:4) Our spiritual joy naturally inspires our growing daily witness and a positive attitude of profound appreciation.

As you prepare your heart for Thanksgiving, never be content with yesterday’s level of gratitude. Ask the Lord to give you a more sensitive and responsive heart that is eager to do His will. Then you will experience new boldness in telling others about why you are so grateful! Remember, that the Lord Jesus should be thanked above anyone else for His totally underserved gift of grace. As Paul beautifully expressed it –

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!”
(2 Corinthians 9:15)

Part Two

Thanksgiving – is far more than a single day on our calendar. It is to be the essence of our lifestyle. The Bible therefore encourages us saying, “Let us enter His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout triumphantly to Him in song.” (Psalm 95:2) Thanksgiving is an attitude of appreciation to God for His love, provision, and endless kindness. On that occasion, we collectively express our heartfelt gratitude to Him. The Apostle Paul explained the spirit of our gratitude saying, “… we believe and therefore we speak.” (2 Corinthians 4:13)

Grace came to us from Calvary, changing our lives forever – so our appreciation comes from deep within our hearts. Because of changed lives and God’s countless blessings, heaven’s transforming message has been passed down from one century to the next. This is how the world’s multitude of past seekers have found the joy of their salvation.

God’s miracle of redeeming grace takes place in one life after another as we share our Christian witness. May today’s conversations and prayers reflect the true meaning of this wonderful season!

Part Three

Jesus said, “Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.” (John 7:38) Today and every day, the life-giving power of God’s Spirit will be energizing you and all those who have come to know Him. Streams do not labor, nor do they strain – they serenely and effortlessly continue flowing. In that same manner, we are to pray, trust, and relax while watching the Holy Spirit do His work! His amazing river of grace and truth simply overflows the banks of our lives.

Thanksgiving Day was established out of gratitude to God for His abundant provision and material blessings. In that same spirit, the Psalmist wrote, “I will thank the Lord for His righteousness; I will sing about the name of Yahweh the Most High.” (Psalm 7:17) Let’s make every day like that — all year long!