It’s merely a picture … of me. Debbie made it this past Sunday after Church. Actually we were trying to highlight the tie, accenting pure white snowflakes on a red (Christmas like) background.

Now, today’s Bible Lesson …

I look at the tie and bubble over with thanks! It was a gift from a Preacher friend, a Pastor, for whom I have conducted Revivals for several years. Each year he and his Wife present us with a Christmas gift, two actually. And mine always contains a … tie! So appropriate for Preachers! Well, old fashioned, fundamental ones who still wear ties!

Then (in the picture) I see a suit, black. Which too was a gift. Again I am grateful!

And my glasses, which the Lord provided in a special way. More thanksgiving!

Standing in our living room, one which is warm and dry (no leaking). Goodness, I’m saying “Thank You” Lord once more!

I was also positioned within three feet of our Christmas tree. With its banner at the top proclaiming HOPE, in red. And by now I’m nearly bursting with thanks, HOPE IN JESUS! A blessed Hope, He’s coming again!

And a sweet Wife who made the picture, more thanks yet!

Just returning home from preaching … my gratefulness scale just hit “10!”

On and on I could go.

I think I might realize what Paul meant when he characterized the Christian as one who lives … “abounding in thanksgiving!”  Where “abounding” in Greek means “overflowing” or more literally, “all around!”

Yes, from Colossians 2:7. “Rooted and built up in him (Jesus), and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.”

Amen!

I know it’s Christmas, and traits like generosity and worship and hospitality and brotherly love get most attention. After all, the month of November and Thanksgiving Day have passed for another year.

But … can’t we be thankful even now for all the blessings we enjoy?

Full well knowing … “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” James 1:17

Let me suggest a little assignment for us all today.

Take a piece of paper and a pencil or pen … and list 5 (or 10) things for which you are exceedingly thankful! And if you can’t write at the moment, list the things in your head, your heart … and thank the Lord profusely!

Paul was right. We should “in every thing give thanks.” 1st Thessalonians 5:18

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

Someone text me what is at the TOP of your gratefulness list today! At 770-844-7627. If you forget to text, tell somebody anyway! In addition to praising the Lord with a thankful heart.