"Happy Thanksgiving To All!"
- Rita Larson
- Nov 23, 2023
- 3 min read
This year, Thanksgiving falls on my Dad’s birthday, and it has me reflecting on the magnitude of my blessings and the gratitude I have for all of my family and friends. It’s been a roller coaster of a year, filled with both highs and lows, but I’m thankful that God has been showing up and showing off in ways that only God can do!
Over this past year, so much has happened. I found myself in a place where I didn’t think I would be able to walk much longer until I had a miraculous recovery from surgery that restored me better than before. My husband and I were in Israel during a time of war, yet were able to make it home safely through divine intervention. I’ve forged new friendships and seen restoration in other relationships. I have also suffered some losses as relationships came to a close. I have seen restoration in my husband as he started a new business allowing him to use his God-given talents.
This Thanksgiving, I am especially thankful for this season of restoration and healing in my life. As a Christian, I understand that all of these blessings come straight from God and that it’s important to thank Him for every single one. Now, more than ever, I am reminded of the importance of gratitude, and I’m so thankful that the Lord has given me this incredible opportunity to be surrounded by so much love and joy.
The Bible is full of passages that express the importance of thankfulness, and these verses have helped me to better understand how to approach this season of thanks. One of my favorite passages from the Bible is found in Philippians 4:6, which reads, “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” This verse reminds me that I should come to God with a thankful heart and that prayer should be accompanied by gratitude.
I am also reminded of 1 Thessalonians 5:18, which says, “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” This verse is a great reminder that no matter what the situation, no matter what the circumstance, I should always be thankful. It’s a reminder that I should be thankful for all of the blessings that God has bestowed upon me, no matter how big or small.
Finally, I am reminded of Psalm 100:4, which reads, “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.” This verse reminds me that I should approach God with a thankful heart and that I should always give Him praise. It’s a reminder that I should be grateful for all of the blessings in my life and that I should always thank Him for all He has done.
As I take time to reflect on this Thanksgiving, I am reminded of how truly blessed I am. I am so thankful for all of my children, grandchildren, family members and friends who have loved me, supported, and encouraged me throughout this year. I am so thankful for the healing and restoration that has come through God’s grace and undeserving mercy. I am thankful for the love and joy that surrounds me, and I am thankful for my Dad, who left me with an incredible legacy and a lifetime of lessons and memories.
This Thanksgiving, I urge you to take time to reflect on all of the blessings in your life and to thank God for all of the incredible gifts He has given you. No matter what the circumstance, no matter what the situation, take time to express your gratitude to the Lord for all of the wonderful blessings in your life. ©Rita Larson 11/23/2023
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