Greetings Holy, Healthy and Happy People of God,

As I write this eNote to our faithful and devoted community of radical followers of Jesus Christ, I am reminded of this notion of giving thanks.  In a time when there is division and differences of opinion, we can all agree that giving thanks is our level of trust in God.  So no matter what happens today, we can and should find a reason to give thanks.

Trust is foundational to giving thanks!
Even with the aftermath of losing (at least) five school age children to a tragic bus accident in Chattanooga, TN, we must find the strength to trust God even in the midst of pain and suffering and praise God.  David, the Psalmist records, “God makes salvation its walls and ramparts.”  Psalm 26:1 

Peace determines our level of Trust!
Our level of peace is grounded our trust in God!  Ever wonder why certain people appear never to be shaken by their surroundings?  They have firmly planted their trust in God and God returns to them peace.  A peace that surpasses our own understanding!  David writes it this way, “Those with sound thoughts you will keep in peace, in peace because they trust in you.”  Psalm 26:3

Where there is peace there is thanksgiving!
When God’s peace is within us, our response is out of a heart full of thanksgiving!  As we sit around the Thanksgiving table with family and friends, give thanks because we “Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord is a rock for all ages.”  Psalm 26:4

Hear the W.O.W., the Words of Wisdom,
“Choose to default to giving thanks!”

As always, remember, God’s will for us is good, we must do the rest!
Pastor Stephen