Thanksgiving

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a theory about human motivation. The most basic needs are things such as food, shelter, and clothing. Only after these needs are met can we move on to psychological and spiritual needs. The book of James speaks to this idea in James 2:15-16, “15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?” James points to the need to meet physical needs before reaching to the spiritual. We do need to note that reaching physical needs is not an end in itself. Ultimately, we have to reach to the spiritual needs that we all have. Meeting physical needs oftentimes opens the conversation to spiritual needs.

So, what does all this have to do with thanksgiving? Stop for a moment and recognize all of the physical needs that have been met. This does not negate the current struggles of life. This should however put us in a place of thankfulness. As we thank God for food, clothing, shelter, family, friends, church, and salvation among many other things our hearts should be moved to the greatness of God as well as the graciousness of God. Pause right now and recognize the provisions of God in your life. Does this lead your heart to Him? Does this cause you to thank Him and worship Him? I challenge you in this season of thanksgiving and Christmas to pause and recognize all that God has provided for you out of His love. I pray that will lead you into a time of praise and worship.

Pastor Scott