How Often do We Give Thanks

Now thanksgiving is gone, and the Christmas season is here. Christmas lights are up, and everyone is Christmas shopping. But have you ever noticed how even before thanksgiving is over people already start to put up their Christmas lights and decorations. Now, there is nothing wrong with this, but somehow, it almost gives me the impression that people are just skipping thanksgiving and going straight to Christmas. How often does thanksgiving still stick in the back of our brains, and how often do we actually give thanks to God. Do we just stop and think about this for one day out of the year, and then some people don't even give a rip about it then either; they're to excited for Christmas. Well, don't completely forget about thanksgiving; don't even just stop at one day, go further than that. I mean, do we stop and take a minute to talk to Him and thank Him for his great generosity all the time? Or are we just taking everything he gives us for grant it? During this Christmas season, make sure that while receiving and giving all your gifts that you still remain thankful for the money you have to purchase your gifts, the gifts you get, and the great family time that is spent. And don't stop there, remember to be thankful no matter what happens. We shouldn't even use hard times as an excuse. In James chapter 1 verses 2-3 is says this: "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trails, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." Now we have a reason to be thankful for trials too. Now remember, don't just be thankful during the holiday seasons but be thankful all the time; yes ALL the time. 1 Thessalonians 5:18: "In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."