Sunday Words of Encouragement November 23, 2014

This morning we talked about giving thanks in Sunday School and it was also the subject of Pastor's sermon.
Our SS teacher shared some verses, poems and quotes he had found including: "The art of Thanksgiving is  Thanks-living", "When life is not good, God still is" and 'we should have an attitude of gratitude and realize that gratitude changes attitude.'
He then asked each member of the class to share something specific we were thankful for during the last 12 months, acknowledging first that we would be thankful for spouses, children and parents. These are summarized descriptions of  our answers:

Bible reading that brings us closer to God.
God nuggets - when perhaps even a child speaks something of God that is delightfully awesome.
Relationships with others and that God designed us to need each other.
Church family. Family members finding/listening to God for themselves.
Youth ministry.
Being able to rely on God in times of darkness.
God's continual provision.
Assurance of God's control in our lives.
God's unfailing love.
Staying home with kids.
Being here (alive) even when we might also be homesick for heaven.
Growth even through divorce.
Church family having "our six".
God revealing Himself to us.
Health.
God being always faithful.
Fellowship and family.
Incredible relationship with God who is just waiting to share with us whenever we turn to Him.
Epiphany moments.

Pastor told us briefly about the life of Martin Rinkhart a Lutheran minister in Germany who led his congregation and community during the Thirty Year War that started in 1617, and included years of plague. He wrote many hymns and this is a favorite at Thanksgiving time:

Now Thank We All Our God

Verses for Today:
Colossians 3:15-16 (NIV)
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

I give thanks today and everyday for all that God has given me and all that the Lord has done for me. I came into this world with nothing and I will go out with nothing. However, I pray that I will be faithful to share and use for God's glory any blessings that I have been given during my life.