By Bailey Bryant, Senior Pastor, Shiloh Church
The Thanksgiving season is upon us! For many, that means good food, family, and football. But what does the Bible actually teach us about thanksgiving?
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NLT) tells us: “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”
As a pastor, one of the most common questions I hear is: “Am I in the will of God?” Scripture gives us a clear answer—God’s will is that we be thankful in all circumstances. Not just when life is going well, but in every season. That’s easier said than done, right?
How can we remain thankful in times of trial or lack? As believers, we can stand on Romans 8:28 (NLT): “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
We can give thanks because God is forever faithful. He is working everything—our highs and even our lowest lows—for our good. Thanksgiving becomes a powerful spiritual weapon. It lifts our hearts toward God, reminds us of His goodness, and opens the door for breakthrough in our lives.
In a culture filled with unbelief, complaint, and ungratefulness, giving thanks re-centers our minds on our loving and gracious Savior.
So, may Thanksgiving not be just a season for us, but a lifestyle—a daily celebration of all that the Lord has done, is doing, and will continue to do!
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