The first Thanksgiving took place in the fall of 1621 in Plymouth County, Massachusetts as the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Indians gathered together to celebrate their autumn harvest.
Not much has changed since that first celebration. We continue the tradition of gathering with friends and family centering around a traditional dinner with all our favorite dishes and desserts. It’s a time to reflect on and celebrate another year.
In some cases, our reflections remind us of a year or a time that hasn’t been easy or pleasant. Sometimes Thanksgiving brings up sad memories, hurts, and pain. For many, there just isn’t anything to be thankful for.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 is the foundation of being thankful. “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” It’s never easy going through hard times. Its during the hard times that you want to give up, give in, and quit trying. Its during these times that you wonder why do you even bother trying to be happy or positive because you know something else is about to hit you.
This is when you must be purposed in doing exactly what the Word says. Don’t focus on what makes you sad or causes you hurt and pain. Focus instead on the Lord. Through Him you will be able to find true peace and happiness. When you give Jesus those things you will be able to walk through this time and in prayer, thank Him for each and every situation or problem. When you thank Him for the bad things, you defeat the power of the enemy. It defeats the enemy’s plan of attack of overwhelming you to the point of despair, depression, and hopelessness. Don’t give up or despair. You will be able to pray yourself forward by giving thanks in everything.
Pray in the manner below and get specific with your needs, fears, frustration. Give everything over to Jesus. Pray believing that God hears you.
Father God, in the Name of Jesus, I rejoice and give You thanks for every problem I am dealing with right now. I stand on Your Word that says to pray without ceasing giving You thanks in all things. I am thankful that You already know my every need and you know every situation that I am facing. I ask, Lord that You take away any fear and depression that is trying to come upon me. I pray Romans 8:28 over me and my family that says: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” I thank You God that Your name is above everything. I thank You for all the good things I have now and that are to come in my life. I thank You Lord for Your love and that You are my God. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Pray to Jesus without ceasing. Come before Him with a thankful heart and He will work out your situations. It will all be done according to His perfect will and timing. Don’t despair and don’t be discouraged!
Remember, rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and in everything give thanks.
You will be blessed that you did!
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