Dear CPC Flock,

Thanksgiving is an essential mark of a Christian. 1 Chronicles 16:34 David calls us to (1 Chronicles 16:34) “give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!” The Psalmist exhorts us (Ps. 95:1-3), “Oh come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For the LORD is a great God …” Paul exhorts us to (1 Thess. 5:18) “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Of all people, we as Christians have numerous reasons for gratitude. Our God is the giver of “every good and perfect gift” (James 1:17). In fact, he loves to give good gifts to his children (Mat. 7:11). The extent of his benevolence is proven in Christ. The Father gave his only begotten Son for sinners (John 3:16). Truly, gratitude is the right response to God’s grace (2 Cor. 4:15). As you go about the rest of your Thanksgiving week, make the following prayer yours.

Giver of all … I take my place beneath my great redeemer’s cross, where healing streams continually descend, where balm is poured into every wound, where I wash anew in the all-cleansing blood, assured that Thou seest in me no spots of sin. Yet a little while and I shall go to Thy home and be no more seen; help me to gird up the loins of my mind, to quicken my step, to speed as if each moment were my last, that my life be joy, my death glory.

I thank Thee for the temporal blessings of this world—the refreshing air, the light of the sun, the food that renews strength, the raiment that clothes, the dwelling that shelters, the sleep that gives rest, the starry canopy of night, the summer breeze, the flowers’ sweetness, the music of flowing streams, the happy endearments of family, kindred, friends. Things animate, things inanimate, minister to my comfort. My cup runs over.

Suffer me not to be insensible to these daily mercies. Thy hand bestows blessings: Thy power averts evil. I bring my tribute of thanks for spiritual graces, the full warmth of faith, the cheering presence of Thy Spirit, the strength of Thy restraining will, Thy spiking of hell’s artillery. Blessed be my sovereign Lord! Amen! (Taken from The Valley of Vision, 224-225)

—Pastor Clif