HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Today is another day to give thanks unto the Lord. Our Podcast Message last Sunday was entitled: “Thanking God Even In Times Like These.” David said in 1 Chronicles 16:8, 34: “Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good; for his mercy endures forever.” In this message, we learned that believers are thankful and that we should give thanks unto the Lord in at least three ways: 1) Daily, 2) Deliberately and 3) Delightfully.
As I said last Thursday, we can experience delight rather than despair. First, let’s begin today with the Lord. I encourage everyone to invest time with God in prayer at least three times on this day thanking Him for every reason that comes to mind. Also, after the first prayer, enjoy time with the Lord reading passages in the Book of Psalms about giving thanks unto the Lord and about His goodness.
Secondly, let’s demonstrate today our thankfulness by giving to others. Designate a segment of today by encouraging others who are struggling. Even if we are struggling, we will be blessed by helping others in the exact way that we need to be helped. In other words, we can help ourselves by helping others. After ministering to others, we should probably refuel by enjoying devotional time with the Lord again which will be a good time to pray for an extended period of time thanking God for everything that comes to mind.
Thirdly, let’s plan today to do something enjoyable in the place where we live. This might mean eating a good meal, watching a good movie or sports on TV, taking a drive or walk, or whatever makes us happy (as long as it does not make God unhappy).
I believe the above suggestions are good for everyone, especially for people who are alone today. If you are blessed to live among others (e.g. family), enjoy them but avoid allowing people outside of your family pod to mingle with you for reasons of safety.
Please be mindful that I am only making safe suggestions that can help us get through today with delight instead of despair. Whatever we decide to do, let’s make sure that we are prayerful and careful. Also, let’s conclude the day with the third prayer of thanksgiving.
After Thanksgiving, December is less than a week from now. Holiday Chats With The Pastor through various ministries are scheduled next month. If a Servant Leader is not able to contact you, please visit our website (sjmbc.org) for information regarding this. Also, if you are a member of St. John but not part of a ministry, you can join in with any ministry during their scheduled time.
In conclusion, one of the best ways to enjoy this day and days to come is by giving to the Lord. We currently contribute by mailing or dropping off our Tithes and Offerings to our St. John South Campus (662 South 52nd Street—Richmond, CA 94804) or by giving online through our website (sjmbc.org). If you are a member of St. John who is financially able but not supporting our church financially, allow God to bless you with more by giving today your Tithes and Offerings.
May God bless and sustain each of us.
Your Servant In Christ,
Dr. Kevin B. Hall, Pastor