“In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

I believe Scripture clearly teaches that God expects us to thank Him for the blessings He pours into our lives. One powerful example is found in Luke 17:15–17, where only one of ten lepers who had been healed returned to thank Jesus:

“One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, ‘Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?’”

This passage reminds us that God not only deserves our gratitude but also desires it. He wants His people to recognize His goodness, not take it for granted. As we approach Thanksgiving, it’s worth asking ourselves: how often this past year have we taken time to count our blessings and thank God for all He has done?

God’s desire for our gratitude is not confined to one Thursday in November. He calls us to live each day with thankful hearts. Paul echoes this truth in several passages:

• “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
• “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 5:19–20)
• “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

Paul reminds us that our gratitude should be continual, not conditional rooted in God’s unchanging goodness rather than our changing circumstances. Even in hardship, Paul maintained an attitude of gratitude because he trusted in God’s character and purpose. He knew that a good God would only allow circumstances that would ultimately bring about good.

So as we enter this Thanksgiving season, let’s ask ourselves: Are we living each day with an attitude of gratitude? Are we focusing on God rather than our circumstances, trusting that He is working for our good?

It is my prayer that we would live thankful lives—lives that reflect our gratitude to God in both word and action.

I am deeply thankful for the opportunity God has given me to serve the churches in our Network. I thank God for our pastors, our congregations, and the ways He continues to work among us. May each of you experience His abundant blessings during this season and every day as you serve our Lord.

Bro. Gary

Click on the picture for the link to the Georgia Baptist Mission Board's Events Page for information on these events and more!

SAVE THE DATE: 203rd GEORGIA BAPTIST CONVENTION

ANNUAL MEETING

November 9-11, 2025 | First Baptist Church Atlanta