Do you know the story of the first Thanksgiving?
The Pilgrims came to America from England over 400 years ago! They wanted to escape the king who wouldn’t let them worship God. It was a hard and long journey, and when the Pilgrims arrived in America, it was freezing winter!
They were cold, sick, and running out of food, but God was looking out for them! Friendly Native Americans helped the Pilgrims and taught them how to farm the land.
The first Thanksgiving happened a year later, after their first harvest. The Pilgrims wanted to thank God for protecting them and providing for them, so they held a huge feast to celebrate, and they praised God!
God’s plan doesn’t always work out like we might think or hope. The Pilgrims faced hard times, sickness, death, and a freezing winter. They might have wanted an easier journey, but God provided for them and gave them strength. After everything God helped them through, the Pilgrims knew they could trust His perfect plan!
Be Thankful
Even during the hardest times, God never abandoned the Pilgrims. He knew what was best for them. They knew it was best to trust Him!
Being thankful takes practice! That’s why it’s good to pray every day and think about the good things God has given you!
"Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
The Pilgrims practiced being thankful by celebrating together and remembering everything God had provided for them!
How will you celebrate and remember God’s goodness this Thanksgiving?
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
1 Chronicles 16:8-12
Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness.
Let the whole world know what he has done.
Sing to him; yes, sing his praises.
Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds.
Exult in his holy name;
rejoice, you who worship the Lord.
Search for the Lord and for his strength;
continually seek him.
Remember the wonders he has performed,
his miracles, and the rulings he has given.
1 Chronicles 16:34
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever.