It seems that everyone is talking about the controversy over Black Friday, and stores that are choosing to open on Thanksgiving day. I will admit that I was just as aggravated over this decision. It is saddening to see such a blatant display of greed interrupting a holiday about giving thanks for our blessings. Despite the controversy, we need to keep our focus where it belongs. Giving thanks.
We have so much to be thankful for, and no corporation can take that from us. God pours blessings down on us no matter where we are. Scripture tells us numerous times that we should give thanks to the Lord. As 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV) says,
"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
We are told in ALL circumstances. We aren't told to only give thanks when you are surrounded by family and plenty of food. As I have read that Billy Graham said, "Even when life may be difficult, we should thank God for all He does, which we do not deserve." When we remember how little we deserve; we remember how much we have to be thankful for.
Don't let the uproar of the latest controversy distract you from Who we are giving thanks to. Thanksgiving is a wonderful day to focus on the blessings that we have received from a gracious God.
But then again, every day seems like a great day to give thanks and praise for our undeserved blessings.
Image Created by Emily Gibson
