Happy Thanksgiving

"Give thanks in all circumstances, or this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV).

On behalf of all the Take Root and Write team, we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving. We pray all is well with you and those most precious to you.

Our Lord desires for us to give thanks in all circumstances, yet it's not easy to be thankful in all situations. Some situations are really painful. I know I've been in some painful situations as I'm sure all of you have been too. I recall times my heart ached so badly, with tears streaming down my face, in a very angry tone, screaming, "Lord, I trust You. And all I can be thankful for right now is my eternal salvation. That's all I have to look forward to at this moment."

Amazingly, something interesting happens. A release came. I do not know how to explain it, but to know that the Holy Spirit is at work. When we put our faith and trust in God by thanking Him for what we can, He works through our circumstances. I wish I could tell you He makes it all go away, but it doesn't disappear like magic. But my attitude toward the issue changed. My perspective changed. And my faith increased.

So no matter where life is at for you, we can have an attitude of gratitude for something. If all is well, be thankful. If life is tough right now, we can be thankful that Jesus promised us the Holy Spirit who guides us through these times. We can give thanks.

Today, our regularly scheduled columns published. Some of the topics released today are not so cheery, but are real issues of life. In Lucy's column, we are reminded to show the gospel to someone in need. Let's keep our eyes open today to see if we can share the love of Christ with someone. In Winter's post, she explains the Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Lots of military service people may have more stress on this day than any other. If we are around military, let's show them our appreciation for their service and encourage them. In Lakeyshia's article, we can remember that sometimes it's better to say nothing rather than to murmur and complain. We can find ways to enjoy those God has placed in our lives and set aside hurts and differences.Today's wrap up comes from Meredith on Homeschooling High School. She shares testimonies of homeschooled high school students and home school grads giving thanks. You're sure to be blessed by reading the attitudes of gratitude from young people.

Again, on behalf of the Take Root and Write staff and team, we wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving!