Thanksgiving

By Ron Thomas     If we all think about it for a few moments, each of us would have much to say about those things in life for which we are grateful. All of us, I hope, are grateful for our families. All of us, I hope, are grateful for the employment we have, the material blessings afforded us, our friends, etc. There is an appropriateness to thank the Lord for such things in our lives.     Are you grateful for the Lord’s church? No doubt many of you pray for the local church frequently, expressing to Him who is above all how grateful you are. Think of Ephesians 5:27 a little along this line. that he might present the church to himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish (ASV).     How can we express our thanksgiving to the Lord for His church? Since the Lord is going to present to Himself the church as a glorious body of the saved, we need to consider the life we live. Is the life we live, individually, a holy life, or a confused life. If it is confused, perhaps it may be confused for one of three reasons. First, if it is confusing, is it because we don’t know something? The remedy for that is Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, And light unto my path (119:105, ASV). Let us turn on the light and walk clearly. Second, if it is confusing, is it because we refuse to submit ourselves to the Lord’s teaching? If so, then let us be reminded that It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God (Heb. 10:31). Third, if it is confusing, is it because we struggle with implementation of the Lord’s words, but the distractions scream at us? Then let us resolve to minimize those distractions by setting your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are upon the earth (Col. 3:2).     When there no longer is any confusion, one’s gratitude is reflected in his actions because his heart (mind) understands that which is important. Frequently, one can tell much by what another says, or does not say. When people see or hear you, what do they hear? Be sure to let them hear how grateful you are, not only for the things in life, but for Him who gives Life to those who obey Him.

- Ron Thomas preaches for the Church of Christ at Rio Grande in Bidwell, OH. He may be contacted at etsop95@gmail.com