“It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly implore His protection and favor”

George Washington

Introduction. This week our nation sets aside a day which it calls “Thanksgiving.” This day in one form or another has been observed in various forms (and various days) since the days of the Puritan Pilgrims who left England fleeing from the persecution of the Royalists. While many in our day have lost sight of our dependence upon God and our responsibility for thankfulness as Christians we must strive to have a spirit of thanksgiving at all times not on one day alone.
     This evening let’s talk for a few moments about the subject of “thanksgiving.• We aren’t using this to refer to “Indians, Pilgrims turkey, dressing & cranberry sauce” but rather the spirit of gratitude that should fill our souls as we recognize the benefits of God which we are privileged to enjoy.

I. God’s People Should Be Thankful.

1. Thanksgiving offerings were a part of the Old Law.
   1. There were peace offerings of thanksgiving. (Leviticus 7:11-15).
   2. It was a freewill offering eaten the same day. (Leviticus 22:29,30).
2. After the return from exile, Israel offered tahnksgiving at the completion of the city walls. (Nehemiah 12:27; 31; 38-40; 43).
3. The Psalms resound with thanksgiving. (Psalm 69:30; 92:1; 100:1-5; 116:17). Ambrose said - “No duty is more urgent than that of giving thanks” (On Berevement ).
4. Prayers should be offered with thanksgiving. (Philippians 4:6). Seneca said - “Nothing is more honorable than a grateful heart” (Epist. 81.3).

II. Christians Have Much For Which to Be Thankful.

1. Our material blessings.
   1. Our food & shelter. (I Timothy 4:4,5; Matthew 6:25-33). There is an old Chinese proverb that says “When you drink from the stream remember the stream” -- I would suggest it is much more profitable to remember the one who made the stream!
   2. Our families. (Proverbs 31:10-12; Psalm 127:4,5).
   3. Our jobs & opportunties. (Ecclesiastes 5:8,9).
   4. Our nation & freedom. (I Timothy 2:1-3).
2. Our spiritual blessings.
   1. Forgiveness of sins. (Romans 6:16-18).
   2. Fellowship with God. (Colossians 1:3-12).
   3. The church. (Philippians 1:3-7; II Thessalonians 1:3-4).
   4. The word of God. (Romans 1:16,17).