Acts 2:25-28 NKJV

[25] For David says concerning Him: ‘I foresaw the Lord always before my face, For He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken. [26] Therefore, my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad. Moreover, my flesh also will rest in hope. [27] For You will not leave my soul in Hades, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. [28] You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in Your presence.’

I have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving day. I get to celebrate one more year of sobriety. I have the privilege of spending the day with some of my family. I am blessed with a wife who loves the Lord (and me) unconditionally. I get to be an active father in my son's life... seeing him grow and mature into an amazing young man. We have a comfortable home. We seldom lack or want for anything. Blessings come in many forms. I feel like I am in every imaginable way.

There are plenty of things I would like to have. I can look around at worldly items and wish for them all. If I do that, I will overlook the details of all I have to be grateful for. I don't want to be the thief of my own joy. My happiness isn't hinged on my belongings. My joy isn't tied to the stuff I own.

Joy is a decision that we make when we focus on Jesus. I know where my blessings come from. I know who saved me. I have so much to be thankful for, especially an amazing Savior who spared me to experience them all.

Psalms 100:1-5 NKJV

[1] Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! [2] Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. [3] Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. [4] Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. [5] For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.