|
A Word from Charles
Happy November Everybody. Tis the season to be Thankful. In my last church, I had a church member. His name was Buford Coursey. Buford was a World War II Veteran. He was in the European Theatre. He told me that during this time, his relationship with God went to a deeper level. He told me that He prayed several times in a foxhole, “God get me home.” The Lord answered his prayer and Buford was able to raise a family and enjoy a long life in Western KY. Not only was I his pastor but I was also his Sunday School teacher. One Sunday, I was teaching on being thankful. Buford shared that he had five words that directed his life. He held up his right hand and used the index finger of his left hand to touch the fingers of his right hand. As he spoke and counted these words with his five fingers. These five words were “Thank you God for everything.” He said, this is what life is all about, having a thankful attitude.
When I watched and heard Buford speak, I thought about what the Apostle Paul said in I Thessalonians 5:18. Paul under the inspiration of God said, “in everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” I think we don’t fully grasp this truth in the culture today. Thankfulness is not at the top of the list. There are a lot of others that crowd out the command of Scriptures. I like what Warren Wiersbe had to say, He said “An attitude of gratitude is a wonderful weapon against unbelief, disobedience, a hard heart, and a bitter spirit.” I believe Buford had a very practical point to ponder that would help him in living life. How many of us today are dealing with unbelief, disobedience, a hard heart or a bitter spirit. Warren Wiersbe tells us of a cure for these things.
Based on the word of God, we are to have a thankful spirit. I read a story about H. A. Ironside. H. A. Ironside had in a crowded restaurant. Just as Ironside was about to begin his meal, a man approached and asked if he could join him. Ironside invited his to have a seat. Then, as was his custom, Ironside bowed his head in prayer. When he opened his eyes, the other man asked, "Do you have a headache?" Ironside replied, "No, I don't." The other man asked, "Well, is there something wrong with your food?" Ironside replied, "No, I was simply thanking God as I always do before I eat." The man said, "Oh, you're one of those, are you? Well, I want you to know I never give thanks. I earn my money by the sweat of my brow and I don't have to give thanks to anybody when I eat. I just start right in!" (Ray Stedman, Folk Psalms of Faith).
Being thankful demonstrates our appreciation to God. He has given to us abundantly, let us praise Him. It is not just for Thanksgiving but 365 days a year. A simple statement but so true, we have much to be thankful for.
Blessings,
Bro. Charles
| 
