Today’s Scripture
“For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13, AMP).
Today’s Devotion
How bad can the holidays get? A couple of years ago, the Washington Post carried a story about a Portland, Oregon family’s Thanksgiving Day disaster.
Diane Harlan was getting ready to carve the turkey when she noticed something unusual. The freshly-cooked bird seemed to have grown a long, fuzzy tail that waved back and forth. The family cat had discovered a warm, yummy-smelling hiding place and was in no hurry to leave. (In case you’re wondering, it was fine. The turkey, however, was a total loss.)
Pizza, anyone?
Give Thanks in All Circumstances. Really?
If you think that giving thanks in all circumstances means pasting on a grin when you really want to explode (or when the cat destroys your Thanksgiving dinner), then you’re missing something very important. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says: “Give thanks in all circumstances” (ESV). In, not for. There’s a big difference between those two words. Understanding that difference may just help you stay thankful when the holiday falls apart.
Staying Thankful When the Holiday Falls Apart
You may always not feel thankful when relatives plop down at the dinner table and rehash their politics and complaints while eating turkey and stuffing. But you can be thankful that God gives you grace when you need it most. Keep Philippians 2:13 in mind this season: “For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure” (AMP).
God is at work in you, in your spouse, in your marriage, and in your family.
He sees your faithful efforts.
He values you.
He loves you.
He never gives up on you.
For that—you can truly be grateful.
THIS WEEK’S GRATITUDE CHALLENGE
- Read Philippians 2:13 every day this week to remind yourself that God is at work in you and is giving you strength.
- Take one minute each day to pray about the upcoming week and for the people who will be at dinner.
- Sit down with your spouse this week and ask them to help you plan Thanksgiving dinner and get the house ready for guests.
Today’s Prayer
Heavenly Father, we place the upcoming holiday in your hands and ask for your grace. Please make our home a place where peace and gratitude can be found in abundance. Amen.
