When recalling the year of 2020, being thankful can prove difficult when the narrative has been death, distance, division and the difficulties that accompany them.

This is a time when it seems that good news is in short supply and truth is relative. How does one give thanks in these circumstances? How is GOD found in the moments when the events of the year have left us emotionally drained and physically exhausted?  How can we focus on the feelings of holiday sentimentality with the loss of annual family traditions?

Many may wonder how can I be thankful during all of this? It is in these moments that we need to exhibit an “attitude of gratitude” and remember that GOD is the giver and sustainer of all life. 

Here are a couple of things to remember when giving thanks:

1) Thanksgiving ultimately will lead to our victory.

The bible lists several circumstances where this is achieved through praise and thanksgiving. When we do so, we can receive the assurance of the promise of GOD’s peace (Phil 4:6-7). As my grandmother used to repeat often, “GOD can do everything but fail”. Such promises allow us to praise GOD in the good times as well as in the bad times, knowing that He will ultimately bring us through. 

2) Thanksgiving is a worthy sacrifice to God. In turn, GOD promises us that good things will happen for those that love Him. (Rom 8:28) And if GOD makes such a promise, we can be assured that good things will come out of this pandemic. GOD has a purpose for those who have surrendered their lives to Him. He uses situations such as this current pandemic to show His awesome power and wonderful ways. One of the ways this has been demonstrated is through the increase of technology to meet, pray, and share the gospel message.

Our thanksgiving allows us to gain access to the courts of GOD (Psalm 100:4). When we thank God in advance for what he will do, He opens his gates of divine intervention which leads to more thanksgiving when His perfect will over our situation is done.

While 2020 has been full of sorrow, loss, pain and separation, we can look toward 2021 with great hope and anticipation. GOD states in His word that while “weeping endures for a night, joy will come in the morning”. GOD is on the move and His favor is much greater than these current trials!

My prayer is that you are blessed with joy and thankfulness during the holidays!

We love you and there’s nothing that anyone can do about it!

Elder Kevin Hatcher