The True Meaning of Thanksgiving

When you think of Thanksgiving, what comes to mind? Watching the Macy's Day parade, eating a very large meal with all the trimmings and watching football with family and friends? Or maybe Black Friday and the kickoff of the Christmas season are your focus?

In 1621, Governor William Bradford declared a day of thanksgiving to God for surviving the bitter winter and reaping an abundant harvest. Both Pilgrims and Native Americans feasted together. The holiday began by giving thanks to our Creator!

Over the years, the meaning of Thanksgiving has shifted several times. However, the origins are about giving thanks to God for provisions and blessings. And that is something we need to be intentional about in our time of celebration.

Biblically, we see that thanksgiving is associated with adoration, praise, an offering, or sacrifice. We find ourselves giving thanks for what God has done and who He is. As the Pilgrims noted, God is faithful and gives abundantly to his children. Thanksgiving comes from a grateful heart to the One who has given so much and continues to bless His children.

This Thanksgiving, enjoy the meal, watch the parade and football, but remember to truly give thanks. If you need a little help, here are a few verses from the Psalms:

“Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms.” (95:2)

“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.” (100:4)

“O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: for His mercy endures forever...Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.” (107:1, 8-9)

Let's praise Him this Thanksgiving, give thanks for our many blessings, and then continue this practice throughout the year!