Ezekiel 36:23 (God's Name among the Nations)

Ezekiel 36:23

I will show the holiness of My great name, which has been profaned among the nations, the name you have profaned among them. Then the nations will know that I am the Lord, declares the Sovereign Lord, when I am proved holy through you before their eyes.

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth," (Isaiah 40:28). He is in control of all things (Daniel 4:35), and is before all things (Isaiah 43:10). When He makes a promise, He seals that promise by Himself, "since there is no one greater for Him to swear by," (Hebrews 6:13). There is no power or person on earth who can match up to God, for "before Him all the nations are as nothing," (Isaiah 40:17). God is the greatest, and He is zealous for this reputation (Exodus 34:14). He will not let His name or likeness be tarnished, even though people attempt to do this everyday. They try to demean God, saying, "God is not good," or mock Him, saying, "God is a joke." They may also try to defame Him, saying, "God is not worthy of worship, but I am. I am above God." In response to this, God promises, "I will show the holiness of My great name, which has been profaned among the nations," and "the nations will know that I am the Lord," (Ezekiel 36:23).

When God is equated to something or someone that
is lesser than Him, it makes a mockery of God.
"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked.
A man reaps what he sows," (Galatians 6:7).

People should be careful what they show or say about God. The Scriptures teach, "Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few," (Ecclesiastes 5:2). One day, God will rightfully repay everyone who tried to discredit or defame Him (Deuteronomy 32:35). God will be just towards His profaners, but He also wants to show them grace (Luke 23:34). It is written, "the LORD longs to be gracious to you; therefore He will rise up to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice," (Isaiah 30:18). Right now, God is holding back His righteous anger, so He can forgive everyone who apologizes for their flippant words (1 John 1:9). This is one reason why He says in Isaiah chapter 48 from verses 9 to 11:

For My own name’s sake I delay My wrath;

    for the sake of My praise I hold it back from you,

    so as not to destroy you completely.

See, I have refined you, though not as silver;

    I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.

For My own sake, for My own sake, I do this.

    How can I let Myself be defamed?

    I will not yield My glory to another.

God is above all creation, and "in Him all things hold
together," (Colossians 1:17). "Who is like the LORD
our God, the One who sits enthroned
on high,"(Psalm 113:5).

It not only matters how people respond to God, but it especially matters how the world's leaders respond to Him. This was shown during the time of the prophets, written in the books of Isaiah through Malachi. 

At this time, God had His prophets write down His words. One of these prophets gave a scroll of God's words to Jehoiakim the king of Judah. When Jehoiakim read this scroll, he burned it up. To this, God responded, "I will punish him and his children and his attendants for their wickedness," (Jeremiah 36:31). God even sent His prophets to the rulers of ungodly nations. The Lord sent the prophet Jeremiah to the kings of the middle east, asking them if they would obey God (Jeremiah 25:15-26). When these kings refused, the Lord said, "You will not go unpunished," (Jeremiah 25:29).

Stone etching of king Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon

God rebukes the rulers who attempt to defame Him, but just as with everyone else God also longs to show them grace. To king Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon who worshiped his own might and glory (Daniel 4:30), God made him "live with the wild animals," and "eat grass like an ox" for seven years (Daniel 4:32). After this time passed, Nebuchadnezzar "raised his eyes toward heaven, and his sanity was restored. Then he praised the Most High," (Daniel 4:34). Afterwards, God restored Nebuchadnezzar "to his throne and he became even greater than before," (Daniel 4:36). Because of this, Nebuchadnezzar "praised and exalted and glorified the King of heaven, because everything He does is right and all His ways are just. And those who walk in pride He is able to humble," (Daniel 4:37).

God is still concerned with how the world's rulers speak of Him, and today's rulers appear to say an awful lot about God. Consider how in recent news two of the United States' leaders addressed God concerning their current situations.

When presidential nominee Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt on his life, he made some comments on this event. Speaking at the Republican National Convention, Trump said, "I’m not supposed to be here tonight," and "I’ll tell you. I stand before you in this arena only by the grace of almighty God." The Bible says, "all the days ordained for me were written in God's book before one of them came to be," (Psalm 139:16) and not even a sparrow "falls to the ground outside your Father’s care," (Matthew 10:29). It is also true that all men deserve to die for their sins (Romans 1:32, 3:23). No one should be spared, but God in His grace is able to save anyone (Ephesians 2:4-5). Based on its context and taken at its word, Trump's statement on God's grace is an overall accurate one.

In other news, former presidential nominee Joe Biden was asked if he was planning on stepping down from reelection. Biden responded to ABC news, "If the Lord almighty came out to say 'Joe get out of the race' I'll get out of the race. The Lord almighty's not coming down." The Bible says, "A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a sign" (Matthew 16:4), so Biden's demand for a sign is something God denounces. Biden's comment also positions God in a place where He has to come down and answer to Biden. It portrays God telling Biden what to do, rather than Biden seeking the wisdom of the "wonderful counselor," (Isaiah 9:6). Furthermore, Biden did step down, but in his official statement he made no mention of receiving God's word or praying about his decision.

While these news stories may only be two brief instances in world history, they juxtapose how world leaders can address God. They can choose to yield glory to Him or they can try to steal some of God's glory for themselves.

George Washington, the first leader of the United
States, reportedly prayed to God everyday, and
requested that the nation, "most humbly offer
prayers and supplications to the great Lord
and Ruler of nations and beseech Him to
pardon our national and other transgressions,"
as well as "render unto Him our sincere and
humble thanks—for His kind care and
protection of the people of
this country."

What the nations' rulers say of God is just as important as what anyone says about God. This is because everyone who lived will at some point have to "give an account of themselves to God," (Romans 14:12). They will have to justify all their words, or fall on the mercy of the name "above every name," (Philippians 2:9). The angels say of God, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory," (Isaiah 6:3). Right now, God is keeping the fullness of His glory hidden, but one day all the earth will see Him as He truly is. On that day "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father," (Philippians 2:10-11).

Remember, God has said of all the nations,
"By Myself I have sworn, My mouth has uttered in all
integrity a word that will not be revoked: Before Me
every knee will bow; by Me every tongue
will swear," (Isaiah 45:23).

Sources

• The Bible (New International Version)
• Living Waters: Biden causes Blasphemy (inspired by)
• George Washington: Thanksgiving Proclamation and Prayer

John 13:14-15 (He Washed your Feet as an Example)

John 13:14-15

Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.

On the night Jesus was betrayed, He did some peculiar things. Many of His actions could be considered "out of character," especially for someone who knew they were about to die (John 13:1). One of the unusual things Jesus did is wash the disciple's feet. This story only appears in the 13th chapter of John's gospel, yet it is considered important in many churches. The day in which churches remember this story is known as Maundy Thursday, and according to Dictionary.com Maundy comes from the Latin word "mandātum, which means 'mandate or command.'" So, what is the command Jesus demonstrated by washing His disciples' feet, and how should a Christian respond to this command?

The story of Jesus washing His disciples' feet goes as follows: While the disciples and Jesus were eating their last Passover meal together, Jesus got up from the table, "took off His outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around His waist," (John 13:2-4). Jesus then set up a basin full of water, washed His disciples' feet with it, and then dried them off with His towel (John 13:5). When it was Peter's turn to have his feet washed, he told Jesus, "You shall never wash my feet," and Jesus responds, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me," (John 13:8). Peter then requested Jesus wash his whole body, to which Jesus replies, "Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you," (John 13:10). After Jesus did this, He took His place back at the table and said, "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you," (John 13:11-15).

The Lord says, "I will sprinkle clean water on you,
and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your
impurities and from all your idols," (Ezekiel 36:25).

Now, it's one thing to read a story, but it's another thing to know what it means. So, what is the meaning of Jesus washing His disciples' feet?

First, Jesus' actions show Him taking the place of a servant. In the time when Jesus walked the earth, people often wore sandals, and as such their feet got dirty. It was a common custom for a servant to wash the household's feet as well as those of any guests. When Jesus washed His disciples' feet, He took the role of the servant. Jesus' act of servanthood perfectly illustrates His self-described mission, for He says He "did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many," (Mark 10:45). Jesus is not a God who is "served by human hands, as if He needed anything," but rather He is a servant who continually "gives everyone life and breath and everything else," (Acts 17:25).

Second, Jesus' persistence to wash Peter's feet, but not his whole body, shows Jesus did this to demonstrate something spiritual. He told Peter and the other disciples they already had a bath (John 13:10). The bath Jesus is implying is baptism. The act of water baptism, when someone is immersed in water and then lifted up again, is a symbolic representation of spiritual baptism. This baptism is when a believer is buried with Jesus "into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life," (Romans 6:4). The apostle Paul says everyone who is a disciple of Jesus has taken part in this washing through baptism (1 Corinthians 6:11). Peter later wrote about this cleansing, stating this washing is "not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ," (1 Peter 3:21).

"Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the
full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled
to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our
bodies washed with pure water," (Hebrews 10:22).

Third, Jesus' washing of His disciples' feet concerns a similar spiritual washing. Jesus alludes to this earlier, when He tells His disciples, "If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet," or rather wash your feet of their dirt (Matthew 10:14). Jesus says the people who reject His disciples' and their gospel will be under an unbearable judgment (Matthew 10:15), so Jesus is telling His disciples' to not be contaminated by the world's wickedness and share in its judgment. Only those with clean spiritual clothes can enter into heaven (Revelation 22:14), which is why Jesus' disciples must keep their feet clean. The good news is that when Jesus' followers do get some dirt on them, such as when they sin or fail to love their neighbor, then Jesus can "wash their feet." The disciple John writes, "If anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ," (1 John 2:1) and further says, " If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness," (1 John 1:9).

Lastly, this spiritual washing of feet is not only an example but also a command. Those who follow Christ can forgive and cleanse one another as Jesus cleanses them. This is one reason why Jesus tells His disciples, "If you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you," (Matthew 6:15). When Jesus' followers forgive one another they show comfort, so the one in need of forgiveness "will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow," (2 Corinthians 2:7). Furthermore, Jesus' followers can also wash one another "by the washing with water through the word," (Ephesians 5:26), for Paul says the word, meaning Scripture, helps make Jesus' followers more righteous and pure (2 Timothy 3:16). Jesus followers' can even keep each other's feet from getting dirty by instructing one another. Paul writes that believers "full of goodness, filled with knowledge" are "competent to instruct one another," (Romans 15:14). In doing these things and more all of Jesus' disciples work together to "present everyone fully mature in Christ," (Colossians 2:22).

When one of Jesus' disciples washes another one's feet they
reflect Jesus' servanthood, affirm His baptism, proclaim the
forgiveness of sins, and show others how to do the same.

With all that Jesus is illustrating through washing His disciples' feet (including everything not addressed in this post), it is understandable why many people would not understand the meaning of this story. Sometimes, those who do not understand can prematurely give their own teaching about Jesus' feet washing. Oftentimes their uninformed teachings can lead others to confusion or worse.

On a personal note: this blog post was originally going to be published closer to Easter time, however this has been adjusted due to a recent advertisement released during the LVIII Super Bowl. The advertisement is part of a campaign known as He Gets Us, and their ad. shows several still images of various people washing other people's feet (though one image is just two guys sharing a foot bath). It concludes with the text, "Jesus didn't teach hate. He washed feet," implying Jesus' act of washing His disciples' feet shows how Jesus opposed hatred.

These still images, along with others, appeared
in the "Foot Washing" advertisement
created by the He Gets Us campaign.

However, according to the example Jesus demonstrated in John chapter 13, this ad. is misguided in nearly all of its claims. The ad. seems to show people of all kinds washing everyone and anyone's feet. Jesus, though, says His command to wash one another's feet only applies to His disciples, for this is what He means when He says, "you also should wash one another’s feet," (John 13:14). The ad. also shows people only washing each other's feet in the physical sense and never the spiritual one, but Jesus washed His disciples' feet physically to demonstrate a greater spiritual action. If Jesus' feet washing only concerned the physical act of taking the place of a servant and promoting proper hygiene, then Jesus would have been a bit dense to ask His disciples "Do you understand what I have done for you?" (John 13:12). Even more than these errors, the closing text claiming "Jesus didn't teach hate," is directly contradicted by this story. After Jesus washed His disciples' feet He says, "you are clean, though not every one of you," and John elaborates, "For He knew who was going to betray Him, and that was why He said not everyone was clean," (John 13:10-11). Now, Jesus saying someone is spiritually filthy when they likely thought they were clean may or may not be considered hateful, but it is arguably less debatably hateful for Jesus to refer to this same filthy person as a devil (John 6:70-71). It is written of Jesus He "hated wickedness," (Hebrews 1:8-9) and His disciples' learned from His example to "hate what is evil," (Romans 12:9).

In the description for their advertisement, He Gets Us asks, "How would our contentious world change if people, especially those with opposing ideologies, took off their shoes and washed each other’s feet?" The answer is the world would not change a whole lot. At best, people everywhere would have much more pleasant smelling feet. The proof of this is when Jesus washed Judas' feet, and then says this foot washing did nothing to make Judas spiritually clean or any less wicked (John 13:11). If Jesus disciples' want to offer true washing to cleanse the wicked of this world, then they must lead people to "repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins," (Acts 2:38). Only after someone has had a bath will Jesus' disciples then be able to wash their feet.

Jesus' disciples, like Him, walk in the world's dirt
but do not belong to it, because they have been cleansed
by God's word and His truth, (John 17:16-17).
Those who belong to the world's dirt need to be washed
"with the Holy Spirit and fire," (Matthew 3:11).

Sources

• The Bible (New International Version)
• John MacArthur Study Bible (consulted research)
• Dictionary: Maundy Thursday
• Bible Study Tools: Baptism
• He Gets Us: Foot Washing Advertisement

Should Christians say "Happy Holidays"

Picture this, you're at a store in December and the cashier says to you, "Happy holidays." There are a lot of different ways you could react to this seasonal salutation, but you're not likely to act surprised. Saying "happy holidays" is common these days, especially in stores, on the radio or over social media. What would happen, though, if this exchange between you and the cashier took place at a Christian book store? How about if you heard "happy holidays" on Christian radio? How would you react if you heard "happy holidays" at church...from the pastor? Now, that might be surprising. It may even raise this question: Should Christians say "happy holidays"?

To be fair, "happy holidays" rolls off one's tongue a little bit easier than the cramming of consonants that is "merry Christmas." Just because something is easy, though, doesn't necessarily mean it's worth doing. It's easy for someone to ignore Jesus and keep the course of their life, but doing so would be the greatest mistake they could make (Luke 9:57-62). There's also a lot of joy that can come from overcoming a difficult obstacle. Jesus says, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God," (Mark 10:25). Despite this, Christians continue to preach to the greedy, knowing Jesus did "not come to call the righteous, but sinners," (Mark 2:17). Think about how audiences still cheer when rich man Ebenezer Scrooge is born again on Christmas day (yes, it's a fictional example, but it's also festive). So, just because "happy holidays" is less of a tongue tier than "merry Christmas," doesn't mean it's a better seasonal salutation.

Some people dislike hearing "merry Christmas," and that might
be because the world hates Christ (John 15:18). Now, Christians
should not be ashamed to speak Christ (Romans 1:16), and
should also be gentle with their words (Galatians 5:22-23).

Now, what if a Christian said "happy holidays," and truly meant to wish that others have enjoyable holidays, more than just the big one on December 25th? That would be interesting, but it would not go against Biblical precedent. Paul wrote to Christians who were being ridiculed for celebrating certain Jewish and Gentilic festivals saying, "do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day," (Colossians 2:16). It wasn't morally wrong for one of the Christians in Colossi to celebrate Passover and Easter. It's not disobedient to God for anyone to take part in Christmas or its neighboring festivities (in fact celebrating Saint Lucia's Day on December 13th has some Biblical value). If a Christian were to truly wish another person "happy holidays," doing so would not be a sin.

Even though Christians can say "happy holidays," this doesn't mean Christians should say it. Christians can certainly say, "'I have the right to do anything,” but not everything is beneficial," (1 Corinthians 10:23). A big reason Christians may want to avoid saying "happy holidays" is because it implies that all celebrations in December have equal value. It's rather disingenuous for a Christian to imply that embracing the birth of their savior has as much merit as ringing in the calendar new year. If someone had a birthday on Valentine's day, then it wouldn't be wrong on February 14th to wish them "fun festivities." Wishing them that alone, though, is inconsiderate, since the obvious celebration that matters more to them was not acknowledged. Here in December, the value behind Christmas obviously matters more than other winter holidays, and it definitely should for Christians. Christmas reminds people of the Gospel message, while all other winter celebrations center around lesser things. Honoring Jesus is more important than honoring something else, and (let's all face it) Jesus is the reason for the season.

Jesus is the reason

We celebrate the season

Christmas is the birth of our King

And, Christmas isn't Christmas

Without the love of Jesus

He is the reason that we sing

- Tom Brooks

Sources

• The Bible (New International Version)
• Got Questions: War on Christmas
• Tom Brooks: Super Duper Christmas

Why Does Gender Matter?

Many news stories, instances and discussions concerning gender have come up on the internet these days, things such as this, that and also this. The topic of gender and gender roles are on people's minds, and minds are valuable. We, as believers, are told that our minds and the renewing of them are what allow us to understand God's will and how we ought to live (Romans 12:1-2). We should not waste our minds on anything foolish, and we should make sure we spend our time thinking about what is worthwhile. So, do the topics of gender and gender roles matter enough that we should think about them, and if so why do they matter?

Gender matters, because it is part of God's design. In the beginning God made a man and from that man God made a woman (Genesis 2:7,21-22). Before sin entered the world, while everything on earth was pleasing to our Creator, God made gender, male and female (Genesis 5:2). He is delighted that both men and women have the honor of bearing His image (His likeness) on earth (Genesis 1:27), for when He finished creating everything, he looked upon it and called it good (Genesis 1:31). Know that no matter what gender God has created you as, you are a good creation, fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).

This, this is for all the girls, boys all over the world

Whatever you've been told, you're worth more than gold

So hold your head up high, it's your time to shine

From the inside out it shows, you're worth more than gold

- Britt Nicole

We should not disregard what God calls good, or much worse decide for ourselves what is and isn't good. This is what Adam and Eve did, when they disobeyed God and chose for themselves what was their understanding (their knowledge) of good and evil (Genesis 3:6-7). How could we, as created human beings, possibly know what is good or evil better than the one who created us? God is not only the Creator of everything, but He also sustains it (Colossians 1:17). One way He sustains His creation is by letting what is good prosper and making what is evil perish. We can "be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free," (Proverbs 11:21). If we want to "trust in the Lord and do good" (Psalm 37:3), then we need to understand what God considers good and acknowledge it as such. God says gender is good. That is why gender matters.

Not only does gender itself matter, but so do gender roles. This should be especially true among believers, because believers have received words from God on this matter. Paul wrote that one role women have that men do not have is the role of child bearing (1 Timothy 2:15). Peter wrote that a husband (a married man) must treat his wife (a married woman) with respect and grace bearing in mind the physical difference between himself and her (1 Peter 3:7). A husband is also called to lay down his life for his wife (Ephesians 5:25). Paul even writes about specific roles for men and women in church (1 Corinthians 14:34-35), and some of us, even as believers, may be inclined to want to ignore what Paul has said on such things. We should not do so, because immediately after what Paul writes on such gender roles, he writes in 1 Corinthians 14:36-38:

Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? If anyone thinks they are a prophet or otherwise gifted by the Spirit, let them acknowledge that what I am writing to you is the Lord’s command. But if anyone ignores this, they will themselves be ignored.

Gender roles, especially in marriages and in the church, are not simply Paul's opinion or even his best advice. Gender roles are a command from God. That, truly, is why gender roles matter, and why we, as followers of our Lord, must do our best to understand them and live by them well. We, as believers, love God, and "this is love for God: to keep His commands. And His commands are not burdensome," (1 John 5:3).

You may be wondering at this point what my thoughts on Scripture's determination of gender roles are. I will not tell you what my beliefs on gender roles are, because my personal beliefs don't matter. I will, however, direct you to some sources that have influenced my Biblical understanding of gender and gender roles. Those sources can be found here, there and also here. It is far more important for you and I and everyone to not simply find out what others believe concerning gender and gender roles, but to truly understand what the Bible (God's Word) says about it.

It may seem a daunting task to read the Bible and interpret its true meaning. Remember, though, God does not want to confuse us (1 Corinthians 14:33). He wants us to be like minded, for it joyous when we have "the same love, being of one accord, of one mind," (Philippians 2:2). We do not go into the important work of understanding God's will all on our own. God has always made it so for Christians to come alongside other Christians to help them better understand His Word (Acts 18:24-26). We have been placed together in the Body of Christ which is the church (1 Corinthians 12:27), and we never do God's good work alone.

No man is an island, we can be found

No man is an island, let your guard down!

You don't have to fight me, I am for you

We're not meant to live this life alone!

- Tenth Avenue North

Sources

• The Bible (New International Version)
• Britt Nicole: Gold
• Tenth Avenue North: No Man is an Island

Should We Pray "God Bless America"?

If you live in the USA, you are likely familiar with the phrase "God bless America!" It's a line used in many songs and on many bumper stickers. From a Christian perspective the phrase "God bless America" sounds like a prayer; the vocalization of one's desires being made known to God. This raises a question: Should Christians pray that God bless the USA?

To simplify answering this question from a Biblical perspective, I am not going to address whether people who do not live in America should pray that God bless it. In Scripture there are few moments where God asks someone to bless a nation in which they do not live, will not live or where they have no relatives living. One event concerning this takes place in the book of Numbers, where the king of Moab calls for the divinator Balaam to go and curse Israel (22:11). Balaam is stopped in his tracks by his donkey when it starts talking to him (22:27-28). God then speaks to Balaam and tells him to go and bless the nation of Israel  (23:11-12). This story does not illustrate that God wants people to bless certain nations rather than others. What this story shows is that God set Israel apart as His blessed and protected nation, and He watched over them and kept them from danger according to His will (Psalm 46:5). God would not allow anyone to curse Israel, if it was against His will.

According to Scripture, the nation of Israel is the only nation with whom God has directly aligned Himself. He was nearly always among them throughout all of the Old Testament (Leviticus 26:11). God dwelt in the Temple in Israel during the Old Testament, however in the time after Christ's coming (modern-times) God dwells in His people (2 Corinthians 6:16). It is written that we, as Christ's children, are His Temple (1 Corinthians 6:19). Therefore the church, the body of Christ, is God's present holy nation on earth (1 Peter 2:9). This nation, this new Israel, is spread far and wide across the world, and it has no geographical boundaries or earthly government. It is not a nation found on a map with its own flag. It is a nation made up of people pursuing God's heart.

The USA is a nation that can be found on a map and it does have its own flag. It is an earthly nation, and it is important to remember that in God's eyes "the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales," (Isaiah 40:15). This does not mean that God does not care for the nations of the world. If that were true, then God would not oversee the raising and dethroning of rulers (Daniel 2:21). He does and He gets the final say on who rules a nation, and where that nation goes throughout its history. God also decides who will live in which nations. You currently live where you live, because God put you there (Psalm 139:16).

So, if you live in the USA, it's because God has brought you there. If God has brought you to the USA, does that mean that you should pray for God to bless America?

Take a look at what God told the people of Israel, when He exiled them from their home and sent them away to Babylon, a nation that despised and rejected the LORD. In the book of Jeremiah in chapter 29 from verses 5 to 7 God told His people of Israel to do the following, when they would arrive in the ungodly nation of Babylon:

Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.

You might currently be blessing the nation in which you live,
by simply paying your taxes, taking care of your home,
raising a family or providing a God honoring service.

In a city that did not love God or know Him; God wanted His people to bless that nation and help it prosper. God wanted His people to bless that nation in which they lived, because if the land prospered, then they would prosper (Jeremiah 29:7). Blessing the land in which we live so that we, God's children, may be blessed is one of the ways that we can live an abundant and God pleasing life on earth. Considering that Babylon was one of the worst nations to ever exist, and God still wanted His people to bless it while they were there, Christians should feel assured that they should ask God to bless any nation in which they live, and that they can take part in blessing that nation.

We can bless the nation in which we live by doing as the Isrealites were told to do in their exile: plant gardens, marry and have children, and seek the peace and prosperity of the nation. There are also plenty of other God honoring things we can do, but a big one is to pray for our nation. The people of Israel in Babylon prayed for the nation and God heard their prayers and blessed Babylon. One of the ways God blessed Babylon was by taking the nation's prideful ungodly king and humbling him so profoundly that he turned to God and followed the LORD the rest of his life (Daniel 4:29-37). 

In the USA Christians have the opportunity to seek the peace and prosperity
of the nation by voting on policies and candidates, according to what
is Godly based on Scripture, their pastor's teachings, etc. 

Christians should know that God cares about His nation, the body of Christ, and He desires to bless His people in whatever earthly nation they are. The children of God should bless and never curse (Romans 12:14). By blessing the nations in which we live, we demonstrate the love of Christ and we obey God's command to love one another as He has loved us (John 13:34). It is by our love of Christ for one another that the world and all the nations will know that we are followers of Christ (John 13:35). Through this, the world will see that God's children are a holy nation, and that we are indeed blessed, as Jesus proclaimed in His Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapter 5 from verses 3 to 10:

Blessed are the poor in spirit,

    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn,

    for they will be comforted.

Blessed are the meek,

    for they will inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

    for they will be filled.

Blessed are the merciful,

    for they will be shown mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart,

    for they will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers,

    for they will be called children of God.

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,

    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Sources

• The Bible (New International Version)
• Jump 5: God Bless the USA
• Got Questions: Is the USA a Christian Nation

How Would Jesus Treat a Homosexual?

You may have at one time heard or said that Jesus never spoke about homosexuality. This statement is often used to argue, "Since Jesus did not condemn (let alone even talk about) homosexuality, we don't know how Jesus would respond to someoe who is gay." This reasoning from an absence of evidence is not entirely accurate. There is indeed a moment recorded in the gospels that illustrates how Jesus would have treated a homosexaul.

Firstly, we must look at homosexuality and its relation to Jesus' views on a God honoring marriage. When the Pharisees tested Jesus concerning His thoughts on divorce, Jesus says, "Haven’t you read that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh?'" (Matthew 19:4-5). It is clear that Jesus says that marriage in accordance with how God established it is between one man and one woman. He also says that this doesn't just apply to certain marriages, but all marriages; past, present and future. This is shown in how Jesus says that a man will leave his father and mother, meaning that the man's parents were one man and one woman. Jesus affirms how God designed marriage to forever be between one man and one woman.

God considers the sexual activities in marriage to be something sacred, and He has a specific title for the sin of committing sexual activities outside of marriage. This sin is known as adultery, and God commands His people, "You shall not commit adultery," (Exodus 20:14). Anyone who engages in sexual activity outside of God's design for marriage (to be between one man and one woman as long as they live) is committing the sin of adultery. Therefore, Jesus would say that two men or two women who engage in sexual activities would be adulterers, because they can never be married according to God's design.

The world wants to define marriage (as well as all of God's perfect designs)
according to its own sinful desires, yet God is the only one who can determine
lawfully what marriage is (Deuteronomy 22:13-30, Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13).

There is a recorded account in the gospel of John where Jesus encountered a woman who was caught in adultery. Though it is not written that she was herself a homosexual, the sin of adultery in which she was caught is an overarching sin and it can include homosexual behavior. The Pharisees brought the sinful woman before Jesus and told Him that according to the law of Moses she should be stoned to death for her sins. Indeed it is written in the books of Moses, "If a man commits adultery with another man’s wife—with the wife of his neighbor—both the adulterer and the adulteress are to be put to death," (Leviticus 20:10). According to God's laws, that woman and the person with whom she engaged in adultery should be killed (though it should be noted the person with whom she was caught engaging in adulterous behavior is not brought before Jesus).

In response to this situation Jesus says to the Pharisees and the crowd ready to kill the adulteress, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her," (John 8:7). At this the Pharisees and the crowd slowly drop their stones and leave (John 8:9). It's possible some of them had heard Jesus say earlier in His sermon on the mount, "I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart," (Matthew 5:28). Jesus' words not only demonstrate how seriously God considers the sin of adultery, but also how every man and woman struggles with this sin, whether inwardly or outwardly.

After the Pharisees and the crowd depart, Jesus and the woman are left alone. Jesus says to her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" (John 8:10). She responds that her accusers have left her, and Jesus says, "Then neither do I condemn you," (John 8:11). Jesus' declaration perfectly aligns with what John writes of Jesus' ministry, "For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son," (John 3:17-18). Lastly, Jesus says to the woman, "Go now and leave your life of sin," (John 8:11). Essentially with these words Jesus tells the woman caught in adultery that her sin has become a lifestyle to her, and she should never commit adultery again. It's not just that she shouldn't get caught in the act again, but that she shouldn't commit the sin of adultery in private or any place.

Don't let this image deceive you. Jesus does not follow sinful people
(such as adulterers, homosexuals, etc.) away from His Church, but rather comes alongside
sinners to call them to follow Him and abide in His Church (Matthew 10:39).

Those who commit adultery or glorify any sexual activities outside of marraige (including homosexuality) should be aware that Jesus calls such behavior sinful. He says that God will punish all those who are condemned by their sin (Matthew 25:41). The only way to be free from the just condemnation above all of our heads is to believe in Jesus Christ, turn away from our sins and follow His ways instead (Mark 1:15). Jesus can free anyone caught in their sins, no matter what they have done. We, as believers, must be wise about such things. It is written in first Corinthians chapter 6 from verses 9 to 11: 

Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men [homosexuals] nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

No matter what sin you have committed, God has caught you in the act, because nothing is hidden from Him. Yet, Jesus does not condemn you, because His desire is to save you from the condemnation you already face. Know that if you are an adulterer who revels in their adultery, then there is not a place for you in Heaven. You must be washed from your sins. If you confess your sins to Jesus, then God will forgive you (1 John 1:9). Jesus assures all who listen to Him that anyone He sets free from sin and condemnation "will be free indeed," (John 8:36). Leave your life of sin.

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble,
whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely,
whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy
—think about such things," (Philippians 4:8).

Sources

• The Bible (New International Version)
• WWUTT: Cast the First Stone
• PureFlix: Verses on Marriage

How Should a Christian Pray for Racists? (Response to "A Rhythm of Prayer")

A new devotional is on the shelves at every major department store in America, and it has become a best selling book nearly overnight. It is listed as the current #1 best selling book on Amazon for "Spiritual Meditations." It's called "A Rhythm of Prayer," and it is a collection of prayers written by various authors and edited by Sarah Bessey. One prayer from this book in particular has been making headlines; "Prayer of a Weary Black Woman" by Chinequa Walker-Barnes, a theology professor at Mercer University. Take a look at the first paragraph from this prayer, and you'll likely see why it's become such a popular talking point.

Barnes begins her prayer with the statement, "Dear God, please help me to hate White people." What a statement that is indeed, especially as a prayer. Barnes goes on to specify that she is not praying about "White antiracist allies" or "ardent racists," but she is praying to hate "the other White people – you know, the nice ones. The Fox News-loving, Trump-supporting voters who 'don't see color'.'" Barnes even asks God in this prayer to stop her "from being hopeful that White people can do and be better." She says, "Let me see them as hopelessly unrepentant." Sarah Bessey, the editor of the devotional says, "Dr. Walker-Barnes’ prayer is a faithful, honest lament, modelled on Scripture. It is a gift of intimacy and vulnerability to the Church and we are grateful to her, not only for the prayer, but for her work and her witness in the world."

Now, if all of this was just the words and beliefs of Bessey and Barnes that was published in some bestseller, then it wouldn't matter that much in the grand scheme of things (certainly not to this blog). However, Bessey and Barnes have published these words and beliefs within the context of a prayer to God; a prayer they are encouraging their readers to imitate and follow.

Is this prayer a Biblical response Christians should have toward racists? This question will be answered, by examining various key sentences from Barnes' prayer. These sentences from this prayer will be compared with Scripture. Not every sentence will be examined, and the only ones that will be examined will feature Barnes making herself an example of how believers should pray for racists. This Biblical examination of these key sentences from "Prayer of a Weary Black Woman" is as follows:

• Barnes: "Dear God, please help me to hate White people. Or at least to want to hate them. At least I want to stop caring about them individually, and collectively." 
• Biblically speaking God does in fact want His children to hate those who do wicked deeds. I have addressed this before in a previous post. The truth is that God hates those who sin and He commands that His children also hate sin. It is written, "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good," (Romans 12:9). What a Christian hates should be something that strengthens them to love God better. If a Christian asks God to let them hate something that they should instead embrace, then God will not honor their prayer.
• Barnes: "I'm not even talking about [hating] the ardent racists...who open fire on Black churchgoers, or who plot acts of racial terroism hoping to start a race war. Those people are already in hell. There's no need to waste hatred on them."
• God hates people who "shed innocent blood," (Proverbs 6:17) and hating wicked people the way God hates them would not be wasted hatred. Since Christians are called to imitate God, (1 Corinthians 11:1) a Godly hatred of evil strengthens a Christian's sense of righteousness. It would be a waste, though, to harbor bitterness. Christians should "get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice" (Ephesians 4:31).
• Barnes is incorrect in asserting that those who murder churchgoers or those who plot acts of racial terroism are already in hell; especially if they are alive. It would be Biblical to say people who delight in evil are under God's wrath (John 3:36), however even they still have a chance to be saved. Saul was a very wicked man who had many Christians sentenced to imprisonment and death while they were in church (Acts 8:3), but after he met Jesus the living Christ he became born again (Acts 9:17-18). He repented of his sins, and became one of the most prominent witnesses for Christ (Romans 1:1). If it is possible for a horrible sinner like Saul to be saved, then it is true that "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved," (Romans 10:13).
• Barnes: "My prayer is that you would help me to hate the other White people– you know, the nice ones... who make thinly-veiled racist comments about 'those people.'...The people who politely tell us to leave when we call out the racial microaggressions we experience in their ministries."
• Barnes' claims about wanting to hate people for making "thinly veiled racist comments" or for speaking "racial microaggressions" is not Biblical. Microaggressions are not explicitly made slights against someone, but are rather perceived attacks. It's not right for Christians to try and find sin in someone when it is not explicitly clear, (Matthew 7:2-3), nor is it right for a Christian to try to make out whether what someone did is sinful, if they cannot clearly perceive that sin through Scripture (1 Corinthians 4:6). It may even be possible that what one person perceives as an attack against them might actually be a Biblical truth being given to them for their training in righteousness; especially if it is given through a ministry.
• Barnes: "Lord, grant me, then, the permission and desire to hate the White people who claim the progressive labels but who are really wolves in sheep's clothing."
• For Barnes to say that people who claim to support liberal ideals but really do not are wolves in sheep's clothing is misappropriation of God's Word. Jesus says that it is false prophets who "come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves," (Matthew 7:15). He is not speaking about people who support the stances of a political party. To misspeak on a Bible verse in conversation is a bad thing, but to be someone who says they have studied the Bible and then misidentifies the meaning of a Biblical phrase is a much worse thing. This is why it is written, "Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly," (James 3:1).

Chanequa Walker-Barnes,
author of "Prayer of a Weary Black Woman"

• Barnes: "Lord if it be your will, harden my heart. Stop me from striving to see the best in people."
• A Christian should never pray for God to harden their heart, for to pray such a prayer would be for them to ask God to release them from His grace and mercy. The Lord says, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh," (Ezekiel 36:26). No one from whom God has removed their heart of stone should ask God to put it back in them. "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed," (John 8:36).
• For Barnes to ask that God will help her to stop seeing the good in people is for her to ask God to help her to stop loving others, as love "always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres," (1 Corinthians 13:7). Christians should not pray this to God, as it is Him who said, "I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven...If you love those who love you, what reward will you get?... And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect" (Matthew 5:44-48).
• Barnes: "Let me see [White people] as hopelessly unrepentant."
• It is sinful for anyone to ask for such a prejudicial mindset. A Biblically based God honoring prayer will not feature someone asking to sin. To claim that any group of people or any person is without hope of salvation is blatant blasphemy against the saving power of the cross. Any wicked person who repents of their sin and comes to Christ can be forgiven of their sin. Jesus says, "All those the Father gives Me will come to Me, and whoever comes to Me I will never drive away" (John 6:37). Paul wrote of Christ's saving power, "Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - of whom I am the worst," (1 Timothy 1:15).
• Barnes: "Free me from this burden of calling them to confession and repentance. Grant me a Get Out of Judgment Free card if I make White people the exception to your commandment to love our neighbors as we love ourselves."
• Barnes is explicitly requesting that she not be convicted by God's command to all believers to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit," (Matthew 28:19). To ask to be released from this command (even concerning one group of people) is for a Christian to ask that God will be done with them and remove them from the earth. It is not God's desire to remove any of His children from the earth, when they could still be witnesses to the lost (John 17:15).
• Barnes asserts that God freeing her from needing to love her neighbor will save her from God's judgement. It is wrong for her to believe this. If someone could save themselves from God's judgement by loving their neighbour, then they could save themselves through their own works. This is not the case, "for it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9). What saves someone from God's judgement is believing in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ (John 3:18).
• Barnes: "Thus in the spirits of Fannie and Ida and Pauli and Ella and Septima and Coretta, I pray and press on, in love. Amen."
• Through this conclusion, Barnes is demonstrating to believers that can pray in the name of Christ but also the names of various African American activists. A Christian should never pray in the spirit of any human leader, as humans have no power to do what only God can do. Christians should pray in the name of the Lord their God only, as God "is a jealous God," (Exodus 34:14). Jesus says, "This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven hallowed be Your name,"" and His name only (Matthew 6:9).

From Barnes' words, it appears her primary message through her prayer is to imply that racist people are beyond repentance; the sin of being racist is unforgivable. It is true that God commands His children to "stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly," (John 7:24). It is true that God is not impartial towards any person nor does He show favoritism towards anyone, (Romans 2:11) so Christians should know that if they show partiality or favoritism to one group of people or another they are sinning (James 2:9). This is how the Bible defines the sin of racism and prejudice, and it is this sin that can lead people to be greedy, take advantage of others and become idolaters of themselves. Even so the Word of God says there is forgiveness for such people. It is written, "Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God," (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). No living human is beyond repentance. No human is outside of the love of Christ, so why should we pray that we treat them as if they were?

Will you love me if I'm dirty and I've lost my way

Till the blood is washed me white and I'm no longer grey

If I don't need your approval will you let me stay, and pray for me

- Kirk Franklin

So, if what Barnes prayed about racists is largely anti-Biblical (even heretical) when compared with Scripture, how then is a Christian supposed to pray for racists? 

A Christian should pray for those who offend them, the same way Jesus prayed for all sinners on the cross, when He said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing," (Luke 23:34). A Christian should pray for their enemies and those they dislike, because God has called them to do so (Matthew 5:44-48). A Christian should lament for their suffering, but they should contribute their situation of suffering to the will of God (Lamentations 1:12). A Christian should pray for a wicked person to repent and put their trust in Jesus Christ alone, as Peter prayed that everyone who heard him would repent of their sins and receive forgiveness (Acts 2:38). A Christian should pray that they will not begin to act in the wicked ways that they see others doing, because they know that "good itself does not dwell in [them], that is, in [their] sinful nature. For [they] have the desire to do what is good, but [they] cannot carry it out," (Romans 7:18). A Christian should pray that God will have mercy on them for their sins (Matthew 17:15). A Christian should not pray for God to destroy their enemies and be quick to anger, because God will rebuke a request like that (Jonah 4:1-4). A Christian should pray that they be given the strength to live as a child of God, even when they are suffering and afflicted (Phillipians 4:13).

The best way for Christians to keep themselves from the sins of racism and prejudice is to dwell on God's Word, where it is written, "there is no difference between Jew and Gentile - the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on Him," (Romans 10:12). Christians should not desire to hate one group or another. Rather, Christians should love the world, as God loves the world (John 3:16). 

Don't be fooled by Barnes' prayer, or any prayers similar. These kinds of prayers are not God honoring, but are instead people pleasing. If the world likes what you are praying (by making it a bestseller), then what you are praying is against God. Don't you know "friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God," (James 4:4). The world will not embrace anything Godly, because the world hates God and hates all of those who follow Him (John 15:19). It is written, "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe," (Proverbs 29:25). Christians should not be led astray by the beliefs that please the world, but should focus on God's Word and His will (Romans 12:2). Christians should follow Jesus Christ and imitate and listen to Him alone.

I listen to the Trumpet of Jesus

While the world hears a different sound

I march to the drumbeat of God Almighty

While the others just wander around

I'm a member of the Holy Ghost traveling band

We're moving on up to a better land

I hear the voice of a Supernatural Singer

Like only those who know Him can

- The Imperials

Sources

• The Bible (New International Version)
• A Rhythm of Prayer
• Not the Bee: Best Selling Devotional about Hating White People
• Newsweek: Help me Hate White People
• ReligionNews: Some Christians want Target to Stop Carrying this Best Seller
• WWUTT: Microaggressions
• Open Bible Info: Racism
• Kirk Franklin: Pray for Me
• The Imperials: The Trumpet of Jesus

What is Biblical about Thanksgiving?

Today in the United States is Thanksgiving, an annual celebration officially recognized by Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War. It is on this day that Americans traditionally join together and celebrate the heritage of one of the first people who colonized this land. These people were known as the Pilgrims.

The Pilgrims were a group of devout Christians who left Europe to worship God in accordance with His word, rather than by the rules of European governments. The Pilgrims wrote a compact to England stating they undertook their journey from Europe to an uncolonized America, "for the glory of God and advancement of the Christian faith and honour of [their] King and country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virginia."After an awful time crossing the Atlantic Ocean where many Pilgrims passed away due to illness, the Pilgrims landed in Massachusets. They would have likely not survived, but thanks to God's providence, they met the native American Samoset who would introduce them to a man named Squanto.

A depiction of Squanto

When Squanto was young, he was captured by Spanish slavers. He was brought by the Spanish from America to Europe, and was sold as a slave. This would not be Squanto's final fate, though. As God would have it, Squanto was bought and set free by a group of Christian monks. According to historians, Squanto learned the reason behind his being set free was the monks' love for Jesus, the man of God who sets every captive free (Luke 4:18). Squanto embraced the Christian faith from the monks, and became a devout follower of Christ. Later in Squanto's life, after years of working as a guide for sailors on the ocean, Squanto made it back home to his village. Tragically, though, everyone in Squanto's home village had recently been wiped out by a plague that likely originated from other European explorers. It is probable that Squanto's anger towards the Europeans, for bringing the plague that wiped out his village, is why he did not greet the Pilgrims when they arrived a year or so later. He hid from them in fear, but his friend Samoset introduced the Pilgrims to him, assuring Squanto that these Europeans were much different from previous Europeans and were in need of help. By the grace of God, Squanto and some otehr native Americans came to unite with the Pilgrims, and they worked together in the love of Christ to create and run a small village.

The Pilgrims, Squanto and the other native Americans endured a harsh first year together. The winter, to be brief, was brutal and many people died. When the air got warmer, the weather nicer and the grounds more fertile, the Pilgrims and the Native Americans sewed seeds that reaped an abundant harvest. In the autumn of 1621 all of the Pilgrims and the native Americans with them had a grand harvest feast, and they likely invited other neighboring people to join with them in their feast. It is not known or recorded what the Pilgrims and native Americans prayed at this feast, as their prayers were spontaneous. A typical prayer the Pilgrims may have prayed could have been similar to this one (written in its original English):

O Lord our God and heavenly Father, which of Thy unspeakable mercy towards us, hast provided meate and drinke for the nourishment of our weake bodies. Grant us peace to use them reverently, as from Thy hands, with thankful hearts: let Thy blessing rest upon these Thy good creatures, to our comfort and sustentation: and grant we humbly beseech Thee, good Lord, that as we doe hunger and thirst for this food of our bodies, so our soules may earnestly long after the food of eternal life, through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour, Amen.

George Webb, "Short direction for the daily exercise of the Christian,"

London 1625. Courtesy of Plimoth Plantation

A depiction of the Pilgrim's prayer at the harvest feast

It may seem natural reading that the Pilgrims gave thanks for their lives, but upon reading about their lives it should seem prepostorous, certainly to an unbeliever, that the Pilgrims should be thankful for anything. They were under religous supression in Europe, they endured terrible travel conditions that cost many their lives, and they barely survived an awful first winter. Still, in the midst of this, the Pilgrims remained faithful to the LORD, and He was watching over them. They would have surely failed to settle down in America without God, but He made it so that Squanto would suffer as a slave for a time, so that he could be set free by Christians, become a devout believer, return home to America and help the Pilgrims survive their first year as colonists. Only God in His sovereignty could orchestrate this perfect chain of events, and it is these divine chains of events that we as believers refer to as providence. 

We, as Christians, have a lot for which to be thankful. It is not because of all the stuff we have or our life situations. It is because we, as believers, know we are in God's hands. God is sovereign, which means He has control over everything that happens, and He does what pleases Him (Psalm 115:3). We may not always understand why God does what He does, but we know that God is good and His good will shall be done. Sometimes that means having to suffer, such as how the Pilgrims were inflicted with illness or how Squanto was sold into slavery. Still, amidst this suffering, God's will is being done. As Joseph remaked to his brothers who sold him into slavery only for Joseph to become the leader of Egypt, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20). Many times God uses terrible situations to bring about His goodness and prosperity. Such is why all the words of Psalm 100 offer thanksgiving to God:

A psalm. For giving grateful praise.

1 Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

2     Worship the Lord with gladness;

    come before Him with joyful songs.

3 Know that the Lord is God.

    It is He who made us, and we are His;

    we are His people, the sheep of His pasture.

4 Enter His gates with thanksgiving

    and His courts with praise;

    give thanks to Him and praise His name.

5 For the Lord is good and His love endures forever;

    His faithfulness continues through all generations.

Give thanks to God for He is good (Psalm 107:1a), remembering on this day that it is by God's goodness and sovereignty that the Pilgrims as well as all of us who are in Christ are able to live with hearts of abundance and thanksgiving. It is not that we, as Christians, are thankful for the things we have, but rather that we are thankful for the God of all creation who has given us everything we have. It is with this belief, that our faith fills us with thanksgiving. So, it was written of the Pilgrims may it also be written of us as believers, "And thus they found the Lord to be with them in all their ways, and to bless their outgoings and incomings, for which let His holy name have the praise forever, to all posterity." (William Bradford).

Sources

• The Bible (New International Version)
• Open Bible Info: Thanksgiving verses
• Open Bible Info: God's Sovereignty
• Plymothy Patuxet: Thanksgiving History
• Weirton Daily Times: Squanto
• Pilgrimhall.org: Thanksgiving
• Of Plymouth Plantation: Bradford's History of the Plymouth Settlement 1608-1650