I hear these words at this time of year.
They are almost drowned out by Christmas music and ads instructing me what presents I should purchase.
And there are moments when I find it difficult to feel thankful, when I don’t feel blessed, when I feel burdened, when I feel sad.
How about you?
But as I look about I realize I do have things to be thankful for.
So I start to make a list. As I write I realize much of what I have to be thankful for I often take for granted. The things I have to be thankful for others less fortunate can only dream about.
And I read what God says about being thankful in 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18:
12…acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you...
13Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.
14…warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
15Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.
16Rejoice always,
17pray continually,
18give thanks in all circumstances;