LIGHTHOUSE DAILY DEVOTION
(Sent daily except Sunday)
(Some of the Devotions are original, some are adapted)
November 25, 2021
BE FILLED WITH THANKSGIVING
Hebrews 13:15 – “By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name."
Throughout history, many cultures have set aside a time for expressing their thankfulness. In the United States, Thanksgiving Day originated with the pilgrims. In the midst of extreme hardship, loss of loved ones, and meager supplies, they still believed they were blessed. They chose to celebrate God’s blessings by sharing a meal with Native Americans who had helped them survive.
We know that we’ve lost the spirit of that original celebration when we catch ourselves complaining that our Thanksgiving Day has been “spoiled” by bad weather, disappointing food, or a bad cold. It’s we who are spoiled – spoiled by the very blessings that should make every day a day of thanksgiving, whatever our circumstances.
Billy Graham wrote, “Ingratitude is a sin, just as surely as is lying or stealing or immorality or any other sin condemned by the Word of God”. He then quoted Romans 1:21, one of the Bible’s indictments against rebellious humanity. He added, “Nothing turns us into bitter, selfish, dissatisfied people more quickly than an ungrateful heart. And nothing will do more to restore contentment and the joy of our salvation than a true spirit of thankfulness.” Which condition describes you?
Here at the Lighthouse Children’s Home in Costa Rica (where Paula and I are currently located), we celebrate Thanksgiving Day every year. It is an opportunity to teach our children the importance of being thankful for what they have. And also, to be thankful that there are Christians around the world that they have never met that care about them, pray for them and send money to help us provide for them. At our Thanksgiving meal we take time to give each child and staff member an opportunity to share what they are thankful for – there are usually times of tears, thanksgiving, and gratefulness. We are very thankful for those of you who are helping us to provide for the needy children in all of the Lighthouse Children’s Homes. God bless you.
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Wit and Wisdom – Thankfulness is a God-honoring attitude.
Point to Ponder – Serving others is a way of thanking God.
