Morning Scripture Reading - 1 Chronicles 16:34 American Standard Version

O give thanks unto Jehovah; for he is good;
For his lovingkindness endureth for ever.

Evening Scripture Reading - Isaiah 60:3 American Standard Version

And nations shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 118:10 American Standard Version

All nations compassed me about:
In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off.

Mid-Week Message - Always in His Sight

"For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their prayer..."   1 Peter 3:12a  (NIV)

I can still see the look in his eyes.  When my daughter was four years old, we went to Texas City, Texas to visit my parents and my aunt and uncle.  One of the things I wanted to do was to take her to Galveston to see the beach and the ocean.  On the evening that we chose to go, my father, who never wanted to miss a moment with his first grandchild, decided to ride along.  

Before we got to the beach, she spotted a roadside carnival and began asking if we could go there after the beach.  She liked the sand and all the water, but she was most excited about stopping to have some fun on the way home.  Being that I also always loved carnivals, we stopped.  

She rode the Merry-Go-Round and a couple of other rides meant for young children.  We played a couple of the games and had some cotton candy.  She was curious about the Ferris Wheel so I asked the man who was running it if it would be safe for me to take her for a ride, as I was concerned about my weight causing a problem.  After giving me the history of the wheel, he assured me it was more than sturdy enough.  

Now my father had never liked this particular ride.  He didn't trust it and he surely did not want his daughter and granddaughter on it.  He told me he didn't think it was a good idea and he asked me to please reconsider.  However, by this time my daughter was excited and, frankly, so was I.  After taking our seat and as the wheel started moving, I looked at my father and saw distress.  He was so worried.  

When I recalled this incident the other day, I began thinking about our Heavenly Father and how diligent He is to watch His children.  Psalm 139 tells us that He is always aware of what we are doing, so I wonder what the look would be in His eyes when we put ourselves in danger or engage in sinful activities.  

The look in my dad's eyes came from his love for us.  If our parents love us that much, just think how incredible the love of God is!  I didn't honor Daddy's request and it hurt him because he was trying to keep us safe.  When we fail to follow the Lord's leading, we have to be aware that we are choosing our own path rather than staying under the protected cover of His wings.  

Thankfully, nothing happened to us that evening.  Were I to have the chance to relive the moment, I would take my father's advice because now I understand that, in his wisdom, he knew that I was putting both myself and my daughter in avoidable danger.  With age comes a deeper understanding of the frailty of life.  I am so grateful for his deep love and that the Lord chose that precious man to raise me.  And I am astounded by what the Father has taught me about Himself through my time with my dad.  

Lord, thank you that your eyes are always on us.  How I'd love to see the look of love that you have for each of your children.  

"I sing because I'm happy.  I sing because I'm free.  For His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches me."  💓

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 22:18 American Standard Version

For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee,
If they be established together upon thy lips.

Morning Scripture Reading - 2 Samuel 22:31-37 American Standard Version

As for God, his way is perfect:
The word of Jehovah is tried;
He is a shield unto all them that take refuge in him.
For who is God, save Jehovah?
And who is a rock, save our God?
God is my strong fortress;
And he guideth the perfect in his way.
He maketh his feet like hinds’ feet,
And setteth me upon my high places.
He teacheth my hands to war,
So that mine arms do bend a bow of brass.
Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation;
And thy gentleness hath made me great.
Thou hast enlarged my steps under me;
And my feet have not slipped.

Evening Scripture Reading - 1 John 4:12-16 American Standard Version

No man hath beheld God at any time: if we love one another, God abideth in us, and his love is perfected in us: hereby we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have beheld and bear witness that the Father hath sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God abideth in him, and he in God. And we know and have believed the love which God hath in us. God is love; and he that abideth in love abideth in God, and God abideth in him.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 118:9 American Standard Version

It is better to take refuge in Jehovah
Than to put confidence in princes.

The Fifth Kernel Unveiled

On Sunday, November 19th, we unveil the final kernel—the essence of thankfulness for health and God's unwavering grace. It's a celebration of the strength that carried us through trials. Don't miss this moment of gratitude. Support our ministry with the generosity of a cup of coffee.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 22:17 American Standard Version

Incline thine ear, and hear the words of the wise,
And apply thy heart unto my knowledge.

Morning Scripture Reading - Exodus 23:25-26 American Standard Version

And ye shall serve Jehovah your God, and he will bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee. There shall none cast her young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil.

Evening Scripture Reading - Isaiah 56:1-2 American Standard Version

Thus saith Jehovah, Keep ye justice, and do righteousness; for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that holdeth it fast; that keepeth the sabbath from profaning it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 118:8 American Standard Version

It is better to take refuge in Jehovah
Than to put confidence in man.

A Prelude to Thanks

As we step into this week, let's anticipate the crescendo of gratitude awaiting us on Sunday. Join us as we explore the fifth kernel—gratitude for health and God's grace. Your presence and support mean the world. Can you spare the price of a coffee to support our ministry?

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 22:16 American Standard Version

He that oppresseth the poor to increase his gain,
And he that giveth to the rich, shall come only to want.

Morning Scripture Reading - Romans 5:6-11 American Standard Version

For while we were yet weak, in due season Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: for peradventure for the good man some one would even dare to die. But God commendeth his own love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, shall we be saved from the wrath of God through him. For if, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, shall we be saved by his life; and not only so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.

Prayer for Nurturing Friendships

Heavenly Father,

We come before you with grateful hearts, acknowledging the precious gift of friendships in our lives. Thank you for the tapestry of connections that you've woven into our journey, each friendship a unique thread contributing to the beautiful design of our existence.

Lord, help us to cherish and nurture these bonds. May our friendships be built on the solid foundation of love, trust, and understanding. Teach us to be loyal friends, just as you exemplify unwavering faithfulness to us.

Grant us the wisdom to appreciate the differences that make each friendship special, and the patience to navigate through challenges. May our friendships reflect the beauty of unity in diversity, mirroring the love you have for each one of us.

Lord, may our hearts overflow with gratitude for the friends who sharpen us, support us, and journey with us through life's highs and lows. As we celebrate the gift of friendships, help us to extend the same grace and love to others.

In the name of Jesus, our ultimate friend and confidant, we pray.

Amen.

Evening Scripture Reading - Hebrews 11:5-6 American Standard Version

By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and he was not found, because God translated him: for he hath had witness borne to him that before his translation he had been well-pleasing unto God: and without faith it is impossible to be well-pleasing unto him; for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that seek after him.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 118:7 American Standard Version

Jehovah is on my side among them that help me:
Therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me.

A Tapestry of Thanks: The Fourth Kernel - Nurturing Friendships

As we venture deeper into the heart of the Thanksgiving season, our exploration of the Five Kernels of Corn brings us to the fourth kernel, a kernel that symbolizes the profound sentiment of "Gratitude for Friendships." These kernels, each laden with historical significance, invite us to reflect on the blessings that shape the fabric of our lives. As we delve into the realm of friendship, we not only draw inspiration from timeless examples in the Old Testament, such as the unwavering bond between David and Jonathan but also from historical narratives that echo the enduring power of companionship.

Consider, for a moment, the remarkable friendship that blossomed between the Native Americans and the Pilgrims. In the face of unfamiliarity and adversity, these two communities forged a friendship that transcended cultural differences. It was a friendship marked by shared wisdom, mutual support, and a genuine desire to understand and learn from one another. This historical testament to unity in diversity sets the stage for our exploration of gratitude for friendships.

As we journey through history, we encounter countless examples that illuminate the beauty of human connection. Think of the camaraderie among leaders who, despite the tumultuous nature of their times, found solace and strength in their friendships. Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two towering figures from different backgrounds, shared a friendship that defied the prevailing norms of their era. In our global tapestry, friendships like these serve as beacons, guiding us toward understanding, compassion, and collective progress.

So, as we unwrap the layers of "Gratitude for Friendships," let the examples of David and Jonathan's unwavering loyalty and the harmonious alliance between the Native Americans and Pilgrims echo in our hearts. Let the historical tapestry of friendships paint a vivid picture of the enduring power that connection, understanding, and mutual support can bring to our lives. Stand firm in the grace of these friendships, and as we embark on this exploration, may our hearts resonate with gratitude for the friendships that shape our stories and enrich our shared history.

In the pages of the Old Testament, the friendship between David and Jonathan stands as a testament to the enduring power of companionship. Their connection surpassed the conventional boundaries of friendship, embracing loyalty, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to a higher purpose. In 1 Samuel 18:1 (NLT), we catch a glimpse of this profound bond: "After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king's son. There was an immediate bond between them, for Jonathan loved David."

As we reflect on this ancient friendship, we unearth valuable lessons about the essence of true companionship. In Proverbs 18:24 (NLT), we encounter a timeless truth: "There are 'friends' who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother." David and Jonathan exemplified this closeness, offering a profound example of the selfless, sacrificial nature that defines genuine friendships.

In our fast-paced world, where relationships can often be fleeting, the gratitude for enduring friendships becomes even more significant. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NLT) encapsulates this sentiment beautifully: "Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble."

The power of gratitude for friendships lies not only in the joy shared during moments of triumph but also in the unwavering support offered in times of trial. Just as David and Jonathan navigated challenges together, we too find strength in the bonds of true friendship.

Amidst the windswept shores of Plymouth, a chapter of history unfolded that would forever mark the essence of gratitude—the profound friendship between the Pilgrims and the Native Americans. As the Pilgrims disembarked the Mayflower, stepping onto unfamiliar soil in search of freedom, they encountered the indigenous people who inhabited the land. This intersection of two worlds would give birth to a friendship that transcended cultural divides.

In the pages of history, we find echoes of this friendship in the tales of Squanto, a Native American who played a pivotal role in helping the Pilgrims adapt to their new surroundings. His assistance in teaching them vital agricultural techniques and forging alliances with neighboring tribes became the cornerstone of a bond forged in the crucible of adversity.

The friendship between the Pilgrims and Native Americans was not merely a diplomatic alliance; it was a genuine exchange of knowledge, support, and respect. It manifested in shared feasts, where the fruits of the land were celebrated, and a sense of unity prevailed despite differences in language and customs.

As we reflect on this historical friendship, it stands as a testament to the power of unity and gratitude. In a world often marked by division, their story teaches us the importance of reaching across cultural boundaries, embracing differences, and cultivating friendships that enrich the collective human experience.

The lessons from this historical tapestry resonate in the present day, encouraging us to foster connections that go beyond our immediate circles. Let the spirit of the Pilgrims and Native Americans inspire us to seek understanding, extend a hand of friendship, and, in the process, cultivate a tapestry of unity that transcends generations.

As we navigate the corridors of history, another powerful testament to friendship emerges—a narrative that not only altered the minds and hearts of individuals but propelled an ideal into the realm of reality. This transformative change exacted a steep toll on our nation, yet it served as the crucible through which the lofty proclamation of the Declaration of Independence, declaring that "all men are created equal," was fiercely advanced. The echoes of this friendship reverberate through time, reminding us that the journey toward equality and justice is often paved with the enduring bonds of camaraderie.

In the annals of history, amid the turbulent era of slavery and Civil War, a remarkable friendship emerged—a friendship that defied societal norms and stood as a beacon of hope and progress. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, and Frederick Douglass, an escaped slave turned abolitionist leader, forged a bond that transcended the deeply entrenched divisions of their time.

In the crucible of the Civil War, Lincoln faced the formidable challenge of preserving the Union and abolishing slavery. Douglass, a fervent advocate for the abolition of slavery, initially viewed Lincoln with skepticism. However, as the two men engaged in a series of meetings and discussions, a profound friendship blossomed. Douglass, once critical, came to respect Lincoln's commitment to ending slavery and recognized in him a partner in the fight for justice.

Their friendship was not merely symbolic; it led to tangible change. Lincoln welcomed Douglass's counsel, and Douglass, in turn, offered invaluable insights on issues of race, freedom, and equality. This extraordinary collaboration between a President and an escaped slave demonstrated the power of friendship to transcend societal barriers and drive transformation.

As we reflect on the friendship between Lincoln and Douglass, we draw contemporary lessons about the potential of friendships to bridge gaps and foster understanding. In our diverse and complex world, marked by its own set of challenges, their story serves as a poignant reminder that friendships, even in the face of profound differences, can be catalysts for positive change.

Just as David and Jonathan's friendship in the Old Testament guided us in understanding the essence of companionship, Lincoln and Douglass exemplify how friendship can be a force for societal transformation. Their story challenges us to cultivate friendships that push us toward empathy, unity, and shared progress.

In the rich tapestry of history, we've woven through the narratives of profound friendships—from the unwavering bond of David and Jonathan in the Old Testament to the transformative connection between Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. These friendships stand as pillars, testaments to the enduring power of companionship in shaping the course of human events.

As we reflect on these historical friendships, let the words of Proverbs 27:17 resonate in our hearts: "As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend." Each friendship, whether in the ancient tales or recent history, has the potential to refine and elevate, molding us into better versions of ourselves.

The friendship of David and Jonathan teaches us loyalty, sacrifice, and the beauty of standing by one another in both triumph and tribulation. The camaraderie between Lincoln and Douglass speaks to the transformative power of unity in advancing ideals that form the very backbone of our nation.

And in the gentle embrace of history, we find the Pilgrims and the Native Americans—a friendship that unfolded on the shores of Plymouth, where unfamiliar faces met in a dance of mutual understanding. Their tale is one of shared knowledge, support, and respect, echoing the ideals of unity and gratitude that persist to this day.

So, stand firm in His grace, dear reader, knowing that the friendships we hold, both earthly and divine, are a gift to be celebrated. As we approach the Thanksgiving season, let our hearts overflow with thanks for the dear friends who sharpen us, support us, and journey with us through life's highs and lows. In the symphony of gratitude, may the chorus of our hearts resound: "What a friend we have in Jesus."

May the Lord's blessings and His gracious presence be with you. May He shine His light upon your path and grant you His peace.