Greetings from Helena,
On Thursday we enjoyed the beauty of driving south on Hiway 83 along the western edge of the Bob Marshall Wilderness. The setting sun was illuminating the majestic mountains, and the beauty of God’s creation was breathtaking! Val and I often comment to each other how thankful we are to be in Montana! We prefer the long drives between the congregations in Montana to the congestion of city driving and lots of traffic. We know that many places are beautiful in their own unique way, but for this time of our life, we’re thankful we can be in Montana!
As we come to Thanksgiving this week, we certainly have much to be thankful for. Yes, things may not be perfect in this world, and there is much turmoil and strife. BUT, God’s word admonishes us to be thankful:
1 Thessalonians 5:18 NKJV – in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Certainly one of the things we need to always be thankful for is the unique calling of God to His way of life. A way that leads to peace, happiness, and contentment if we follow it as our Father intends. And God wants us to appreciate and value the calling He has given us. He wants us to value and be thankful for the opportunity to understand His Word. Paul told the Thessalonians that being thankful – ie giving thanks – was God’s will.
So as you give thanks to God this Thanksgiving week, remember to also thank Him for His calling and for His truth, and for the love He (and Jesus Christ, also) has shown each and every one of us.
1 Thessalonians 5:23 NKJV – Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Thessalonians 5:24 NKJV – He who calls you [is] faithful, who also will do [it].
Best wishes from Val and me for a good Sabbath, a good week, and a happy Thanksgiving!
