Thanksgiving That Reflects Grace

“Thankfulness is a soil in which pride does not easily grow.”
— John Stott

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)

Thanksgiving is more than a national tradition; it is a spiritual discipline. The Apostle Paul’s words to the Thessalonians remind us that gratitude is not reserved for good days or easy seasons. It is an act of faith that sees God’s hand at work even when circumstances are unclear.

John Stott, one of the most respected voices in modern evangelical theology, once wrote that thankfulness is a soil in which pride does not easily grow. Gratitude, then, is not simply polite acknowledgment; it is a posture of humility before God. Pride thrives on self-sufficiency, but thanksgiving thrives on dependence. When we give thanks, we confess that every breath, every provision, and every mercy come not from our own strength but from the grace of God.

In Scripture, thanksgiving and worship are inseparable. The psalmist calls, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name” (Psalm 100:4). Gratitude is the gateway to worship. It opens our eyes to see that even trials are opportunities for grace to abound, and blessings are reminders of the Giver rather than the gift.

In ministry and mission, gratitude also becomes a safeguard. Without it, even noble work can grow cold and self-focused. But with it, we remember that every soul reached, every prayer answered, and every step forward belongs to God. Gratitude keeps the servant’s heart soft and the church’s witness bright.

This Thanksgiving, may our gratitude go deeper than words or rituals. Let it become the soil where humility grows, where joy takes root, and where the gospel bears fruit.

Prayer:
Lord, You are the giver of every good and perfect gift. Forgive us when we forget how dependent we are on You. Teach us to give thanks in all things, not only for what You have done but for who You are. May our gratitude humble us, unite us, and draw others to Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Events
  • 25
    Dec
    Christmas Day

    Christmas Day celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior who brought light into the world. WOA churches around the globe gather in worship and gratitude, reflecting on the miracle of the Incarnation and the hope of salvation fulfilled in Him. As believers rejoice in the love of God revealed through His Son, they renew their faith and devotion to share the good news with all nations.

  • 27
    Nov
    Thanksgiving Day

    Thanksgiving Day reflects a heritage of faith, beginning with the Pilgrims who gave thanks to God for His providence. Shaped by Scripture and rooted in the call to “give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18), WOA churches mark this day with services of thanksgiving, remembering what the Lord has done and dedicating the day to His glory.

  • 29
    Oct
    33rd General Assembly

    The Annual General Assembly of WOA convenes mission and ministry representatives from around the world to reflect on God's blessings over the past year, deliberate on strategic initiatives, and foster unity within our global community. This gathering serves as a pivotal opportunity to align our collective efforts with our shared faith and mission.

Resources ⟶

World Olivet Assembly believes in equipping believers with theological and practical resources that would enable them to advance the work the gospel.

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About world olivet

World Olivet Assembly (WOA) is a global gathering of evangelical churches and para-church organizations existing for the advancement of world mission.

resources

World Olivet Assembly believes in equipping believers with theological and practical resources that would enable them to advance the work the gospel.

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