Nov 23, 2025.

This powerful message from Philippians 1:1-11 reminds us that gratitude isn't just good manners—it's a spiritual discipline that positions us for greater blessings. We're challenged to move beyond Thanksgiving as merely a day or a meal and embrace it as a lifestyle. The apostle Paul demonstrates something profound: despite being beaten, imprisoned, and run out of Philippi, he chose to remember the people there with joy and thanksgiving. This teaches us that we have the power to choose what we remember. Instead of dwelling on those who've wronged us or painful experiences that could embitter us, we can focus on the people God has placed in our lives who've encouraged us, supported us, and helped us grow. The message beautifully articulates that God gives us three gifts to help us become more like Jesus: His Word, His Holy Spirit, and His people. We often overlook that third gift—the church itself, the community of believers who encourage one another, serve one another, and bear with one another. As we approach our Thanksgiving tables, we're encouraged to express gratitude not just for material blessings, but for the people who've made a difference in our spiritual journey. Because at the end of life, it's not our possessions we'll look for—it's the faces of those we love.