8 Keys to a Happy Thanksgiving!

“Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”
1 Thess 5:18
Last week Josh covered these verses in Thessalonians and set us up well for a season of Thanksgiving! Sunday I hope to follow this with a message that gives some very practical steps toward a day that lets us focus on God's goodness and His blessings. It should not be difficult for a believer to be grateful – as Paul says, “this is God's will for you!” Yet, in the rush of the holiday, the pressure of get togethers and even the challenges of travel too many don't enjoy the day – they dread it! God does say to give thanks in everything – that does not mean you must give thanks for everything. A burnt turkey, a flat tire, a missed flight, road construction and even difficult family members – these are ingredients for unpleasant times. So what does God expect? I like the way the New Living Translation handles this - “in all circumstances” rather than for each event. Whatever it is – you are not told to give thanks FOR the difficulties, but rather IN the difficulties. That is a very important distinction, and one I think we often miss. Sunday I will take a look at 8 Keys to a Happy Thanksgiving – nobody needs all 8 but I am sure everybody will need to hear about at least one. – Pastor Mike