Psalm 103:1-5 invites us to bless God and God's name with our whole being--to remember everything God has done and will continue to do for us.

(1) God forgives all our iniquity or sins
(2) God heals all our diseases
(3) God redeems our life
(4) God crowns us with steadfast love and mercy
(5) God satisfies us with good for as long as we live

Be thankful to God because God will forgive us when we repent of our shortcomings and disobedience. Be thankful to God because God can heal cancer, aids, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Be thankful because God will save us froom ourselves and eternal damnation. Be thankful because God is faithful and liberal in showing us love and mercy--unconditional tenderness and compassion. Be thankful to God because God will continuously fill us with new energy in order for us to enjoy all the good things that he provides for us: health, family, friends, wealth, and a bountiful Thanksgiving Table.

The saving presence of God alone is reason enough to be grateful this Thanksgiving holiday and everyday!

"Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonmderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he hs done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced" (Psalm 105:1-5).

Dr. Detra Bishop