Set Your Mind on Things Above

It is officially November! It is a joyous time of year as we marvel at fall colors, enjoy cooler temps, and welcome the ultimate food buffet, Thanksgiving. Unlike other holidays, most Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, making it the busiest travel week of the year. Planes, trains, and automobiles safely transport passengers home to spend the holiday with family and friends. Once home, many enjoy family traditions like piling in front of the TV to cheer their favorite football team to victory. Some prefer watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. And, of course, the sight and smell of foods that define our culture and traditions comfort us as we reminisce on fond memories of home.

Others use this precious time with family to obey God by giving thanks for their many blessings. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us, “In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” There is no shortage of scriptures that remind us how thankfulness strengthens our faith. There are one hundred and forty-seven variations of gratitude in the Bible. Scripture mentions thanksgiving or thankfulness one hundred and ninety-five times.

Even if you are unfamiliar with many of these verses, chances are your earthly parents taught you to say please and thank you after being on the receiving end of kindness. Think of how much our heavenly Father loves us and all He does to provide for our every need. Just like our earthly parents, it pleases God when we are obedient by giving thanks.

I love sharing the goodness of God with everyone I meet, but there is no greater joy than reflecting on God’s grace with my family. We recall the storms weathered and praise God for keeping our family together. Through our shared memories and experiences, we thank God for our blessings. Spending time with family reminds me of Colossians 3:2, “Set your mind on things above, not on the things that are on the earth.” I appreciate my home, car, and clothing, but I am most thankful for the things above.

Today, I have set my mind and heart on salvation and my relationship with Jesus. I am thankful for the preached Word and sound doctrine. I am grateful for God’s divine providence and for guiding my steps. I praise God for women’s ministry and fellowship with other believers. And most of all, I am thankful to be a child of God. 2 Corinthians 6:18, “And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to Me,” Says the Lord Almighty.

May God keep you and bless you,

Tika