What Does the Term Thanksgiving Really Mean?

What does Thanksgiving really mean?

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Every time Jesus broke bread, Scripture says He “gave thanks.” He was teaching us that our daily provision comes from God, not from money, power, fame, or other earthly indulgences. Everything we are and everything we have comes from Him.

Thanksgiving is really thanks-giving, “thanks” for the “giving” of eternal life in Heaven that Jesus Christ offers all of us who believe in Him and who accept Him as our Lord and Savior.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV)

Note: Scripture says “Give thanks IN”, not “Give thanks FOR”…there are many circumstances in our life that we don’t want to give thanks FOR happening. The reason that Christians are to give thanks to God IN every circumstance of life is because “…we know that IN all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 NIV). Sometimes God will allow negative circumstances in our lives to grow us spiritually and to make us more dependent upon Him.

Thanksgiving Magnifies God Daily, Not Annually

Thanksgiving should characterize every believer.

• Colossians 2:6-7 teaches us to live in Christ and overflow with thankfulness. Psalm 69:30 says thanksgiving glorifies God.
• Psalm 50:23 says thanksgiving honors God.
• Hebrews 12:28 commands believers to be thankful. We give thanks because God answers prayer (2 Corinthians 1:10-11).
• We give thanks because Christian giving increases thanksgiving to God (2 Corinthians 9:11).
• We give thanks because God rescues us from sin (Romans 7:21-25).
• We give thanks for everything (Ephesians 5:20) because every breath we take is a gift from God.
• Job 14:5 reminds us that the length of our life is fixed and numbered by God. Thanksgiving is simply the right response.

God shapes our spiritual growth through both favorable and difficult experiences. Many believers find that their faith deepens most during seasons of hardship. Whether facing illness, financial stress, strained relationships, unemployment, or personal trials, God can use each of these situations to mold us into the likeness of Christ. This is known as sanctification, becoming more Christ-like.

To learn the full meaning of Thanksgiving and why the number 365 is important, click here.

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