A Joyful Thanksgiving 2010

We appear to be back up and running after several computer glitches over the past few weeks. We had a system crash almost a month ago, so we reloaded all software. We then had a hard drive crash about two weeks ago. We now have new internal and external drives, a couple of new cards, and software re-loaded again, so we’re thankful for the end result.

We of course realize that this is just a minor inconvenience when compared to what many are going through these days, yet it was very frustrating at the time so we’re using this experience as a Thanksgiving illustration. The Apostle Paul writes that we should

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1Th 5:16-18)

Many would say that this is impossible. We might be able to give thanks for minor inconveniences, but what about major tragedies? Notice however, that these verses tell us to give thanks “in” all circumstances, not “for” all circumstances. Thus, in all circumstances, we can be thankful for God’s sovereignty and trust Him to work all things together for the good of those who love Him (Rom 8:28).

Happiness is a fleeting feeling, but joy is a state of mind based on our faith in God. So, even though we’re a few days late due to computer problems, we wish everyone a very joy filled Thanksgiving weekend.