Be Thankful

Since it’s November, Thanksgiving month, I have been naming one thing that I am thankful for each today. The past four days I have thanked the Lord for my family, my home, my health, and my friends. This morning, however, thankfulness was the last thing on my mind.

I had pleaded with God on several occasions throughout this week and last to intervene in someone’s life and perform a miracle. I truly believed He would and that the life I asked Him to revive would be revived. But the Lord had different plans and that life was taken last night. This morning after I heard the news I felt disappointed, heartbroken, and let down. I struggled through my prayer until the Lord brought me to a place of understanding.

God always has our best interest in mind. Our vision is finite, but His is infinite. He can see well beyond what we see, and sometimes the things He allows to happen are protecting us from harm in the future. Sometimes He allows things for the purpose of strengthening our faith, giving us an opportunity to have an encounter with Him like never before. Whatever the reason, God is good and He works all things (good or bad) for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

After coming to that realization, I am ready to give the Lord thanks. Ironically, I thank Him for life. I am thankful for life here on earth yes, but I am overwhelmed with thanksgiving for life eternal. Life on earth is temporary, but life in heaven with my Father is everlasting. How can I not give thanks for a love that promises eternal life? How can I not give thanks for a love that reaches down to the lowest pit to pick me up and fill me with hope? How can I not give thanks for a Messiah that promises to take me home? How can I not give thanks for a Savior that gave His life to give me mine?