Introduction: Usually, when we bring up the subject of THANKSGIVING, we think of blessings we have already received. However, today’s study brings out another side of Thanksgiving.

 

By studying the life of Jesus Christ, it becomes apparent that He “gave thanks” before the provision was received.

 

1. Jesus gave THANKS! (John 6:10) – “And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.”

 

Did you notice that Jesus “Gave Thanks” before the miracle happened? Even though He was God in the flesh, yet He “Gave Thanks”! What is fascinating about John’s gospel is the sequence of order in this miracle. Jesus first “Gave Thanks,” then the multiplication of the fish and loaves took place. What is our Lord teaching us? Could it be that real faith in God is “Giving Thanks” before our provision?

 

2. Jesus “Gave Thanks” before raising Lazarus from the dead! (John 11:41) – “Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.”

 

With broken hearts, Martha and Mary, Jesus’s friends, were grieving because their brother had died. While this seemed to be an insurmountable case—being dead four days—yet the One who conquered death had power over death, as He demonstrated by calling forth Lazarus from the tomb. But do not miss it. He “Gave Thanks” before the miracle happened. Here again is a lesson that He taught us in regard to Prayer and Thanksgiving.

 

Conclusion: The point is clear. The precedent was set. Our goal is to “Give Thanks” beforehand. Why not stop and do that right now?

 

Love y’all,

Pastor Randy Reese