Most parents are mindful of their children’s manners. They will prompt their children, when needed, to say “thank you.” The child usually has given no pre-thought about this, yet dutifully drones out the words and the task is over until next time. Is it possible that we adults are going through this at Thanksgiving time? We are being reminded to say “Thank you,” but can you really be thankful if you are not thoughtful? (...Maybe there’s a motive behind folks calling it “Turkey Day!”) Our examination of Scriptures today will help us, not only to get an idea of how, where and when to say “Thank you,” but also why. Let’s start with Psalm 92:1-6

Why is it a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD? – Psalm 92:1

We need to show God’s lovingkindness and faithfulness. We need to stay focused on this and show God’s goodness to others. Psalm 92:2 cp. 79:13.

Music is a great way to communicate the truth that makes people free. Psalm 92:1,3 “Solemn sound” (vs. 3 - KJV) comes from the Hebrew word “Higgaion,” meaning “meditation.” See Psalm 9:16; 19:14. Christian music should intelligently communicate a message that promotes thought and meditation: “To show forth” (Psalm 92:2); “teaching and admonishing” (Colossians 3:16).

We need to continually experience the joy of the Lord. The world is full of sorrows, but we have every reason to glory and triumph. Psalm 92:4 cp. 30:11-12; 89:15; John 16:33; I Peter 4:12-14.

The knowledge of God’s works and Word needs to be converted into a positive energy in our life. Bible study should never be boring! Psalm 92:4-5 (Don’t let deep thoughts scare you!); 105:1-8.

We need to lift man’s thought-life! People are naturally brutish or senseless. Psalm 92:6 cp. I Corinthians 2:14. “Brutish” or “senseless” comes from a Hebrew word that means “to consume without thought.” See Psalm 39:4-6; 49:12,20; 9:19-20; Isaiah 55:6-11; Romans 11:33-36; Psalm 34:1-3.

We need to be separate in our thoughts, words and deeds. A thoughtful and thankful spirit is needed for this. Psalm 92:12-15; 106:47 cp. Romans 11:33 – 12:2; Ephesians 4:17 – 5:21.

Give thanks: For God’s deliverance (Psalm 18:46-49); for God’s Holiness (Psalm 30:4; 97:12); for God’s presence / attentive care (Psalm 75:1 cp. 46:1); for His goodness and mercy (Psalm 106:1; 107:1; 118:1,29; 136:1-9,26); for His righteous judgments (Psalm 119:62); for His unspeakable gift. (II Corinthians 9:15; I Thessalonians 5:18).

“The future is our friend when Christ is our Lord” – Warren Wiersbe