In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.  – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Myles Standish was a participant in the first Thanksgiving.  He, and several of his friends had just lost their wives due to illness while trying to literally build a new life in the New World.  The thing we can learn from them is this:  Their thankfulness was not deterred by their circumstances.

Right now, if you are trying at all to talk to people about the Lord, you will find that people are hurting.  Tomorrow, I know of several whose tables are going to be missing some important people.  Things have not gone like many have hoped.  In these types of circumstances, we the ultimate test of thanks:  Regardless of what life has thrown at you, can you still give God glory, honor, and praise?

This hurting world is in desperate need of Christians whose circumstances don’t define them.  Bitterness, despair, and hopelessness are not currently in short supply.  The only solution I know that truly works is to get alone with God!  You will find that His promise to never leave you nor forsake you is true.  Only in Him is true hope and true fulfilment found.  Then, and only then, will you and I be the light that so shines before men.  Then people will begin to want what you have . . . peace that passes all understanding.  That is the first thing I thought when I read about Myles . . . he had this peace the Bible speaks of.  

Lord, I more than likely have more Thanksgivings behind me than before me.  Help me appreciate them more and more.  Help me be closer to you each time another one comes.  Give me a heart that wants to rejoice in all things.  I look so forward to the day when my faith becomes sight.  May Your presence be mightily felt to those whose tables are missing some regulars.  May You give us the wisdom to know that one day we will be the ones missing.  But what a glorious day when we have our first Thanksgiving with You, Lord!  Thank You for the love and presence You are giving me as I sit here and type!  I love You, Lord!  Amen!