One thing that sets Christianity apart is that we find Christians giving thanks for everything. Those who answer “None” when asked about their religion have no one to thank, and our modern American culture is characterized by taking everything for granted.
James 1:17 tells Christians, “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.” In the Old Testament, we see that Moses worried that when the people entered the promised land and were richly blessed, they might become proud and forget what God had done for them (Deuteronomy 8:11-20). Romans 1:21 tells us, “Although men knew that God exists, they have refused to honor him as God or render Him thanks. Hence, all their thinking has ended in futility, and their misguided minds are plunged into darkness.”
We are truly blessed both physically and spiritually. Outside the U.S., only 7% of the world’s population owns a car. The amount of food wasted in this country could feed all the underdeveloped countries in the world. But most importantly, as Christians, we are spiritually blessed.
Americans often see Thanksgiving as a time to enjoy turkey, hunting, and football. While we can enjoy any or all of these, 1 Timothy 2:1 encourages us with these words: “I am urging that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings should be offered for all mankind.” Make this Thanksgiving a time for giving thanks for the physical and spiritual blessings God has provided.
— John N. Clayton © 2025