Giving Thanks
Thanksgiving began with the Pilgrims, to give God thanks for
their survival.
For the Christian family is a tradition of giving thanks,
whether it be in a service, to each other, in testimony, song,
offering, in a family circle, or in prayer. Though those words
may be well intended, sincere, and heart felt ... perhaps we
should also give thanks for "our" survival.
STONING: When one thinks they're doing God a favor by cutting
you off at the pass, silencing you, rooting you out of a
position, or not letting you participate because you haven't
conformed to their ideas for acceptance (leaving you on the
outside looking in).
FLOOD: When adversity hits, one after another, until you are so
overwhelmed that you can feel yourself drowning.
TRIAL: Spiritual warfare; when Satan tries you through suffering
and temptation (meant to slow you down, distract you, detour you
from your calling, and even convince you to quit).
FIRE: Intense tribulation, going through great troubles,
difficulties, or dangers (meant to weed out the flesh and
Satan's power over you).
AFFLICTION: The least amount of pain, suffering, distress, or
calamity required to bring you to greater spiritual growth.
When we let Jesus hold our hand in full confidence - we have
learned to be bruised but not broken, wounded but not killed,
walk on water, do battle with Satan, break chains of bondage,
walk through the fire without being burned, and however else to
overcome.
Christians know what it is to be Pilgrims in a foreign land, to
face the obstacles of people at every hand. For each and every
victory, we are also survivors and can truly give thanks to the
ones who made it possible.
Thank you, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit! We couldn't do it
without You!