11/25/2022
I loved this from the Proverbs 31 Ministries today.
Thanksgiving is an expression of joy, not because of what God provides but because He is the Provider. Our joy comes not from what we have but from who He is, and giving thanks opens our eyes to see more of Him.
The prophet Habakkuk also struggled to see God’s provision in his life. He argued with God, complained and wrestled things through with Him. Finally he surrendered and said:
“Though the fig tree does not blossom And there is no fruit on the vines, Though the yield of the olive fails And the fields produce no food … Yet I will [choose to] rejoice in the LORD; I will [choose to] shout in exultation in the [victorious] God of my salvation!” (Habakkuk 3:17-18).
Giving thanks is not reactive but proactive. Habakkuk chose to rejoice. He chose to give thanks when there was nothing, trusting God for the something. Like Jesus, he knew the Provider of all things. While he couldn't see the how, he saw the who.
Do you have a “not-enough” situation in your life?
The rent is due, but your car broke down.
You feel trapped in a dead-end job or dead-end relationship.
Your child struggles in school, but you don’t know how to help.
Will you join me in thanking God for the not-enough moments and seeing them as opportunities for Him to give more than enough?
Thanking God in all circumstances for what we can see opens our eyes to what we otherwise cannot see. It ushers in God’s peace (Philippians 4:7) and emboldens us with His strength to persevere. (Nehemiah 8:10)
-Jodi Harris
What are you thanking the Lord for today?
