“O give thanks to the Lord of Lords…” – Psalm 136:3 (NKJV)
Thanksgiving originated in 1621 with the English Colonists (Pilgrims) and the Wampanoag people. They were at war but came together at harvest time and gave thanks to God for His blessings. They exchanged dishes in a feast as they ate, drank, and celebrated. The main dish was turkey. Today, families also host thanksgiving celebrations for birthdays, job promotions, graduations, purchasing of homes, and other accomplishments. They would gather and give God thanks.
Churches have also adapted Thanksgiving into their calendar of events. Some have kept the name ‘Thanksgiving’ while others call it ‘Harvest.’ A large table is set up in the church and members carry their produce or anything they might have harvested or produced. These products of harvest are placed on the table as an offering to the Lord.
To better understand this celebration of gratitude, let us begin by seeing what the Scripture says about thanksgiving. One place to start is Psalm 136, which begins and ends with the words, “Oh, give thanks…” (Verses 1 and 26). Repeatedly, we are reminded of a single overriding reason to bestow our gratitude on our great God: “His mercy endures forever.”
The Psalmist reminds us of God’s “great wonders” (Verse 4). He tells us of God’s creative works brought on by this wisdom (Verse 5). He moves on to reference the great exodus of His people (Verses 10-22). As we think of creation and deliverance found in Psalm 136, we can find something to thank God for every day of the ‘Thank You Month.’ Start by giving thanks to the Lord. “O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. For his mercies endure forever.” (Verse 1). He even remembers us in our “lowly state” (Verse 23). Give thanks.
Prayer
We praise and thank You, Lord. Your wondrous works show forth Your glory. We come before Your Presence with thanksgiving and joyful songs as we bring our offerings of thanksgiving to You. With grateful hearts, we acknowledge You as our God. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for the provisions we have received from You. You have blessed us and helped us and for this, we give You thanks. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Psalm 75:1; Psalm 95:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 27:5-14; Hebrews 9:1-15; Ezekiel 16
Thank you Lord for the breath of life. Thank you Lord for your healing power and the persons you have used to help me. For this I give you thanks and praise. Hallelujah Lord, You are worthy. Thank you Lord🙏