Thanksgiving is just a few days away. Many American families have a tradition of taking turns saying what they are thankful for, and most of the time it is good health, friends, family, and general provision. For Christians, this is an opportunity to not only warm their own hearts in recognizing what they should be most thankful for but also to glorify their Savior to the people they are gathered with. Here are three things to proclaim thankfulness for this Thanksgiving.
The gospel
“I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand, by which also you are saved…” (1 Corinthians 15:1-2).
So often taken for granted, the receiving of the gospel has changed every Christian at one point in their life. Whether it was through a preacher, a book, or years and years of going to church until one day it broke through a stony heart, the gospel represents a turning point in every Christian’s life. Taking a moment to remember and share our testimonies of how the gospel of Jesus Christ entered our lives is an excellent way to glorify God during Thanksgiving.
An eternal future
“… but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23).
The hope of all Christians is the hope of eternal life with God. This is especially poignant for those who have Christian relatives and friends who have already passed away. As you and those you are gathered with take time to talk about things you are thankful for, talk about your hope of eternal life. The joy and hope others see in you may cause them to think about their own eternal destiny.
Peace with God
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).
The pinnacle of all things Christians should be thankful for is peace with God. Sins are forgiven, removed, and forgotten. Not only that but when God looks on His Christian children, He sees the righteousness and purity of Jesus Christ Himself. There is no shred or scrap of a reminder of sin between a Christian and God because of Jesus. Once a sinner at war with a holy God, now the Christian’s relationship with God is everlasting love and peace.
To someone who has never heard the gospel, the idea of needing peace with God can be eye-opening. By sharing your thankfulness for peace with God, you open a door of opportunity to share the gospel.
