The Bible speaks much of thanksgiving: "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” (Heb 13:15); "But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; . . . but rather giving of thanks." (Eph 5:3-4); "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift." (2 Cor 9:15).
David's heart of gratitude toward the Lord is seen throughout the book of Psalms. "Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD." (Psalm 150:6). When he was in trouble, he called to the Lord for help (Ps. 28:1-2), and then afterward, he remembered to give God thanks for delivering him (vv.6-7).
But in this day of instant gratification, we tend to forget the one who “daily loadeth us with benefits.” Romans 1:21 is a commentary on our day: “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.” Thus unthankfulness becomes the first step in a downward spiral.
Turkey Day?
Why have we forgotten Jesus
When we should remember Him most?
Why do we live without Him?
Why in our own selves boast?
The Pilgrims who settled this country
Endured much hardship and pain.
They overcame all of these troubles
With the hope of new life to gain.
In thanks to their Father in Heaven,
They paused for a day of prayer.
They praised Him for His wondrous blessings –
They thanked Him for His love and care.
Yet, now we forget all about Him,
Who gave Himself on Calvary’s cross.
Thanksgiving’s only a byword
For turkey and cranberry sauce.
Some even drop the name Thanksgiving –
They call it “Turkey Day” instead.
They don’t want Christ in their memories –
From everything sacred they’ve fled.
We need to keep Christ in Thanksgiving.
We need to praise His dear Name
And always be thankful for blessings –
For salvation from sin and shame.
Why have we forgotten Jesus
When we should remember Him most?
Why do we live without Him?
Why in our own selves boast?
The Pilgrims who settled this country
Endured much hardship and pain.
They overcame all of these troubles
With the hope of new life to gain.
In thanks to their Father in Heaven,
They paused for a day of prayer.
They praised Him for His wondrous blessings –
They thanked Him for His love and care.
Yet, now we forget all about Him,
Who gave Himself on Calvary’s cross.
Thanksgiving’s only a byword
For turkey and cranberry sauce.
Some even drop the name Thanksgiving –They call it “Turkey Day” instead.
They don’t want Christ in their memories –
From everything sacred they’ve fled.
We need to keep Christ in Thanksgiving.
We need to praise His dear Name
And always be thankful for blessings –
For salvation from sin and shame.
© 2006 Paul Stultz
Quote - "The born again, blood-bought child of God should have a continual attitude of gratitude." - Unknown
Quote - "The born again, blood-bought child of God should have a continual attitude of gratitude." - Unknown
