Does God give good things to His children? The Bible tells us God is a remarkable Father. He not only supplies the needs of His family, but also wants to satisfy their wants. Psalm 84:11 states, "No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly."

We are taught in Psalm 37:4, God will give you the desires of your heart. "Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart."

The Bible is clear in teaching God wants us to have enough. He is our Shepherd and He says we do not have to be in need or lack (Psalm 23:1).

Psalm 34:8, "O, taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him!"

Vs. 9...for those who fear Him lack nothing. (ESV)

The Lord is the Good Shepherd. He is also Almighty God, and will do the miraculous to bring the help we need. We need to ask, believe, and walk uprightly before the Lord. Romans 8:32b, "How shall he not with him, also freely give us all things?" 

He wants to meet our needs. He also wants us to be able to share our surplus of food and clothing with the poor and people around us who have needs. Yes, God cares for everyone and gives good gifts!

 ...I am the Lord who heals you. Exodus 15:26 (NKJV)

Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Psalm 103:3-4 (NKJV)

That your way may be known on earth, your saving health among all nations. Psalm 67:2 (AKJV)

I have always enjoyed my family time of celebration during the fall. As we come together on Thanksgiving Day, it is a good time for reflection as we remember the blessings of the Lord. It is also a time of feasting as we cook the turkey and enjoy a delicious meal.

In the Old Testament book of Nehemiah the writer tells about an elaborate celebration. Nehemiah was given permission to leave the Babylonian exile, and return to his homeland to rebuild the shattered wall of Jerusalem. A miracle occurred. After only 52 days, the task was completed! 

Nehemiah was certainly not the promised Messiah for the Jewish people, but he portrayed Christ in his ministry. He also gave up a high position in the Persian palace (Iran) in order to help his people. He lived a life of prayer with complete devotion to God. Nehemiah was thankful for all God did, so he declared a time of dedication and thanksgiving. 

Nehemiah 12:31, "So I brought the leaders of Judah up on the wall and appointed two large thanksgiving choirs." Ezra's (a direct priestly descendant of Aaron) procession traveled around Jerusalem counter-clockwise and Nehemiah's clockwise, coming together at the temple square. What an amazing sight as you see the double procession for the dedication service. The thanksgiving choir celebrated with gladness and great joy!

The Hebrew meaning for thanksgiving can be:

*an extension of the hand  *adoration  *praise *a choir of worshippers *confession  *an offering

Let us enter this season with much gratitude:

"I will praise the name of God with a song and will magnify Him with thanksgiving" (Psalm 69:30).