October 4, 2023 -- Psalm 107:1-3 -- Preparing and giving thanks

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People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,
    for his steadfast love endures forever!
2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so,
    whom he has redeemed from trouble
3 and gathered in from the lands,
    from the east and from the west,
    from the north and from the south.
Psalm 107:1-3 ESV

In a few days Canadians will celebrate Thanksgiving. It was first celebrated in 1879, the Protestant clergy asking this from the government. This took place in the region that is now called Ontario. The date it was observed moved around a bit from October to November until it was set on the second Monday of October. As Canadian society becomes increasingly secularized, this celebration stands out as a beacon of faith for Christians. It is fitting that Christians lead Canadian society in giving thanks to God. Our passage teaches us why we are to be a people who give thanks.

  • This psalm, and many other passages in the Scriptures, command Christians to give thanks.

  • Thanksgiving is the right response of those who see the goodness of our God and Father. He is the source of all good.

  • Giving thanks to God is the only response Christians can offer back to God Who has lavished on us His steadfast love.

  • Troubles and inflation, persecution and oppression, sickness and famine, all these will come but the LORD has redeemed us from our troubles. All these light and momentary afflictions pale in view of His great glory in store for us in eternity. In fact, the struggles of this life often prove to be the very things that prompt believers to return to the Living God.

How will you celebrate Thanksgiving this year? Will your neighbours know you love the LORD by the manner in which you observe Thanksgiving? Will you plan on leading your family in giving thanks to the LORD of glory?

Our Father in heaven hallowed be Your Name. What a rich and beautiful land You have given us to live in where we can express our gratitude. Forgive us for our grumbling, complaining about our circumstances rather than basking in Your steadfast love and responding to You with songs of praise and prayers of Thanksgiving. By Your Spirit and the Word, lead us to reflect on Jesus Christ, and the riches we have in Him. Stir us up by Your Spirit to be a people who give thanks to You every day all year through. As believers give whole-hearted praise and thanksgiving to You, may our family, co-workers and neighbours see this and be drawn to You. Amen.

https://youtu.be/Ef1as5GTl5k?si=8yTIwjWjwwQeFYJS “Praise and Thanksgiving”

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