It can be difficult to be thankful when times are tough. On the other hand, it can also be difficult to be thankful when times are good, because in easy times we tend to take our blessings for granted! The Scriptures guide us to realize that thankfulness does not depend on our circumstances; thankfulness arises when we are connected in faith to God, and our eyes are open to see God’s gifts. Then we are moved to recognize the great blessings that we indeed have from God – not only our immediate blessings, but also the eternal blessings that are ours through God’s grace – and we are moved to appreciate both the gifts and the Giver. Thus our spirits are lifted in praise for the goodness of the Lord.

So no matter what our situation, this Thanksgiving can be a season of genuine gratitude, when we lift our vision to God and join in the attitude of the apostle Paul, as he said, “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances.” (I Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Sunday’s Scripture Readings:
Deuteronomy 8:6–18
Colossians 3:15–17

About the Author

Dr. David A. Palmer has been the senior pastor at the United Methodist Church of Kent since 1995. He has a B.A. from Wittenberg University, a Master of Divinity from Duke University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary. A native of Wooster, Ohio, he has served three other churches in east Ohio before coming to Kent. He and his wife, Mavis, have three children.