Thanksgiving For You
We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people. Colossians 1:3-4
Thanksgiving is a special time to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives and the people who surround us. However, for some, this season can bring feelings of loneliness and isolation. The loss of a loved one, the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and even political pressures can contribute to these feelings, making this time of year particularly challenging. In these moments, it's important to remember that God often uses the people to remind us that we are not alone. Whether it's a friend offering a kind word, a neighbor lending a helping hand, or a family member providing a listening ear, these interactions are more than just chance occurrences. They are God's way of reaching out to us, offering comfort and connection through the people He places in our lives.
If you are in this season of struggle, know that God has a plan. He cares deeply about you. Even if you have known this truth, it might not always resonate in your heart, especially during times like this. But take a moment to reflect on the people around you. Are there loved ones you haven't spoken to recently? Are there friends or family who might not be aware of how you're feeling right now? God often uses the people in our lives to remind us that we are not alone. You are valuable and cherished, and today is a perfect day to be reminded of that truth.
God always has people in our lives to remind us we are valued. In our journey through life, there are moments when we may feel alone in our struggles, even when we know God is with us. It's during these times that God often places people in our lives to remind us of our value and to offer encouragement. Just as Moses had Joshua as a trusted confidant on his journey to the Promised Land, we too can find support in those around us. Sometimes, we may not recognize these supportive individuals because we are surrounded by those who may not fully understand or appreciate our worth as God does. Yet, there is often at least one person who believes in us, who is willing to walk alongside us and remind us that we are not alone. This is not to say that God is not enough. He absolutely is. Philippians 2:13 says, “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” But sometimes, we all need a gentle reminder that God is enough, and through Him, we are enough too. That is my message of Thanksgiving to you today. You are enough because God says so.
We all have a purpose in God’s Kingdom. In times when we feel uncertain about our purpose in God's Kingdom, it can be easy to feel isolated. Yet, God often uses the people around us to remind us that we are not alone. Jeremiah 29:10-11 says, “This is what the Lord says: “You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” We can find comfort in the community He has placed in our lives. Friends, family, and fellow believers can be instruments of God's love and encouragement, reminding us of His promises and presence. Let us open our hearts to the support and wisdom of those around us, trusting that through them, God is working to reassure us of our place in His plan. Who in your life has been a source of encouragement and support during times of uncertainty? How might acknowledging their role in your life strengthen your relationships and faith? My prayer is that you realize this thanksgiving how thankful God and others are for you. Amen.