Giving Thanks~ Heather Young

Thanksgiving is almost here again, and the feeling of autumn is in the air. Two words that easily come to mind when we think about Thanksgiving Day, are “giving thanks.” I’m sure many people stop and give thanks on that special November day, but what about the rest of the year? 1 Thessalonians says, “In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Everything. Not just some things; ev-er-y-thing. I was reminded of this fact not long ago when my dad was praying over our breakfast. He was thanking God for the tough stuff that we were going through, and asking Him to guide us through it and make us stronger. That situation reminded me of another verse, Ephesians 5:20 – “And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Recently, a friend and I began to pray at school at the beginning of lunch. We decided that since we pray at home before meals, why not at school? Giving thanks during lunch helps up refocus on God during out busy day.

Just last month, I was listening to a sermon by Scott Gilchrist. One of the verses he mentioned was Hebrews 13:15 – “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise: the fruit of lips that confesses His name.” He was discussing how God enjoys praise, and in this passage, praise is verbal. The Bible talks about giving thanks, not just feeling thankful. Giving thanks is verbal, which means through our words and our actions, we need to honor God and show our gratitude toward Him. Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the father through Him.”

This November, and all year, don’t forget to constantly give thanks to the One that made us and has “blessed us with every spiritual blessing,” (Ephesians 1:3). And don’t forget you parents, siblings, friends, or anyone who may have blessed you in some way this year or a time in your life. Be an example to others around you, and don’t be afraid to give thanks to God—and people who have blessed you—out loud.

Did you know that Heather can't stand an unorganized bookshelf?!

Did you know that Paige loves texting insane raps to her friends?!

Photograph property of Lilies Among Thorns Magazine. Photograph taken by Paige Cunningham.