All of this is for your benefit. And as God’s grace reaches more and more people, there will be great thanksgiving, and God will receive more and more glory. 2 Corinthians 4: 15 NLT 

Pilgrims shared a meal with Native Americans who taught them how to live in the new land. They had reason to be grateful. Through hardships, loss of loved ones and little to sustain, they managed to remain faithful. Strength, courage and faith allowed them to survive the hardships they endured.

Hardships rob us of moments to feel grateful. But, God helps us persevere by the guiding of His love. He hears our prayers, as we move ahead in our lives. He nourishes faith and provides the way for us to be reminded who is working in our days. And, when we face great challenge, God IS with us. His love never fails! He guides and provides for His children. 

The Pilgrims thanked God, even though they were challenged by despair. Faith led them to the new land and allowed them to rely on God’s provisions. He heard their prayers, as they bravely learned to TRUST. 

God will open our hearts to TRUST in the power of His love. He will draw us closer than before and fill us with His presence of peace. He will provide strength for our souls, if we learn to embrace the gift of a grateful heart.

If we put our HOPE in Him, God will guide and provide ALL the days of our lives. But, we must open our hearts wide enough, so we will recognize His bounty of love and remember we are covered by grace. God will take care of our needs. He WILL teach us how it feels to be GRATEFUL. 

Dear God, Thank you for Your presence in our lives. Humble our hearts, so we will feel Your presence of peace and gratefully consider the power of Your greatness. We will find strength in the guiding of our days. And, we will lovingly give You praise, as we prepare our hearts for THANKSGIVING. Amen