Ephesians 5:20 “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ”
The 1777 Thanksgiving Proclamation by the Continental Congress was bursting with thankfulness, praise, and gratitude (see the previous post). The colonists recognized that it was their indispensible duty to uplift the Lord’s name in this way. Yet, in historical context it was not a time that thankfulness, praise, and gratitude came naturally.
Though the Continental Army had recently won the Battle of Saratoga, they were years from victory. In fact, the British had just captured Philadelphia and the poorly fed and equipped revolutionaries were about ready to settle down at Valley Forge for a harsh winter a short distance from the British ranks. The Americans had no major allies and were struggling to maintain themselves as a viable fighting force. Yet, they took time to give solemn thanksgiving and praise.
Our circumstances should not dictate our attitude towards God. Regardless of whether the enemies of God in this nation are closing in on all sides, we should have a spirit that gives solemn thanksgiving and praise.
REGARDLESS OF OUR CIRCUMSTANCES, WE MUST MAINTAIN AN ATTITUDE OF THANKSFULNESS AND PRAISE. It is the only way that, under Christ’s nurturing hand, we can cultivate the principles of true liberty, virtue and piety.
