A God Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is the one holiday that really isn't spoiled by commercialism, unless you count parades and football games. So far the stores are still closed and the sales don't start till Friday morning at 4:00 am (Kohl's). I suspect that will change in the years ahead. I expect the sales to start at 10 pm Thanksgiving night at some point in the near future. Midnight specials will be the feature soon.

The one thing that most families find hard to do is to make God the central aspect of Thanksgiving.

For the most part He is relegated to a little prayer at the beginning and a "Johnny, what are you thankful for this year?" Maybe someone will thank God, but usually He is forgotten. How do we make Thanksgiving a God Event? I think the key is to follow Nehemiah 8:10.

Then he said to them, "Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength (stronghold)."

First: Make the day Holy by giving it to Him. Pray with your family at breakfast or when everyone arrives and dedicate the day to God. Address Him as Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides.

Second: Give some food to someone who is less fortunate. Check with the community welfare office to see if there are some families needing assistance. Perhaps there is a local food bank that needs provisions. Check with friends. There are many who need and would appreciate help.

Third: Instead of thanking God for the past, look to Him for the future. Let the JOY of the Lord be your stronghold! Have each of your family commit themselves to bringing pleasure to the Lord this next year. Commit to doing what brings God Joy!

When we bring Joy to God we are in His Stronghold!

Is this how your family has a God Thanksgiving? Watch This Video:

http://www.powerpointbiblelessons.com/ThanksGiving/Thankful_controller.swf