The hardships endured in coming to this new land that would be called America must stir within each of us a fervent sentiment of thanksgiving and appreciation. Do you remember that picture in grade school books of that first Thanksgiving as Native Americans and the Pilgrims shared in the bounty of God’s blessing? Surely, no one at that first feast could say that the preceding year had been an easy one, but God was and is faithful to supply every need. Thus, there was a spirit of thankfulness, an understanding of the gracious provision of the Heavenly Father. Their anthem well may have been “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” We are commanded to have and demonstrate that same attitude, for we read --
…”give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”(I Thess 5:18 NIV)
Are all circumstances good? Of course not. Yet, the admonition still stands because the Christian can choose with confidence to allow God to handle situations in life, both good and bad --
… “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”(Rom 8:28 NASB)
It is of great comfort to our souls that in time of trouble there is a rest for those who have placed their faith in Christ. The writer of Hebrews warns us not to fail in appropriating that rest as did the Exodus generation when they refused to enter the land promised them by God
“Now, God has offered us the promise that we may receive that rest he spoke about. Let us take care, then, that none of you will be found to have failed to receive that promised rest.”(Heb 4:1 TEV)
The rest that results in inner peace and contentment forms a defense perimeter in our soul so that the outside circumstances of life can not take control of our lives. The Apostle Peter spoke of --
…”casting your anxiety upon Him for He cares for you.”(I Pet 5:7 NASB)
Paul urged the Philippian believers to commit every situation to the Lord in prayer with thanksgiving.
“Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.”(Phil 4:6-7 TEV)
Nothing is too unimportant for us to go boldly before the throne of grace. Every care, every heartache, every sorrow can be laid upon our Heavenly Father. He desires that we do that. However, the conditions for inner peace, contentment and joy, require that we have a thankful heart as we take our burdens to the Lord and leave them there. It is then that we are able to have the capacity to appreciate and bask in God’s faithfulness toward His children. This season of Thanksgiving should reflect the words of the hymn by Mark Rinhart:
Who wondrous things hath done, in whom His world rejoices.
Who, from our mother’s arms, hath blessed us on our ways,
With countless gifts of love, and still is ours today.
(Psalm 107:8 NIV)