Some people think being thankful all the time is like constantly going around with a goofy smile on your face and being insensitive to other people’s feelings. Some think it means to always be happy. We can be grateful and thankful without being irrationally “happy” in bad times.

In the teen-age film where Winona Ryder came to prominence (“Heathers”), her character, Veronica, says, “If you were happy every day of your life, you wouldn’t be a human being; you’d be a game show host.”

Nevertheless, the Bible teaches that thanksgiving is intended to be a lifestyle rather than a mere holiday or something we do on Sunday. Oh, yes! Thursday is Thanksgiving Day! While I have nothing against it, I am sad that most of us limit our Thanksgiving to one day or season of the year!

Thankfulness All Year Long

The words of 1 Thessalonians 5:16 – 17 weren’t meant for just one day a year.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”.

Philippians 4:6-7 is the lifestyle of the Christian –

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Colossians 4:2 – “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful”.

The Bible is replete with admonitions and words of encouragement to always be thankful. It’s who we are. It’s our lifestyle. How can we lead others to Christ if we are not living lives of Gratitude? I’m sure you love the old hymn – “COUNT YOUR MANY BLESSINGS, NAME THEM ONE BY ONE…”

I encourage you, as you enter these next few days, and as you have family and friends gathered around you—take a moment and remember WHO you are and WHOSE you are. Give Him the glory and the praise for all your blessings…. And they are many!