by Ken Hale
HASTINGS, MI – I once heard someone quote, “Thanklessness breeds bitterness”. That’s an interesting statement. He went on to explain that if we are not grateful for what we have, we will become bitter for what we don’t have.
As I think about the month of November, it always brings a time of reflection and being thankful for all the areas in which God has blessed my life. I have been so blessed by our Creator and all He has done and provided for myself and my lovely bride. So, with that said, I want to share with you my attitude of gratitude and being thankful for what He has allowed to come into my life.
The Apostle Paul said in Philippians 1:3, “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.” (NASB) – With this verse in mind, I would like to recall moments that have happened in my personal life recently.
This past week I had the privilege of attending a Refocus group at Bambi Lake. All I can say is WOW! How God worked in those sessions and in our meeting was totally radical!
First of all, I am so thankful for the group of men that were there. I saw pastors not afraid to tear down the walls of their lives and share some of the hurts that we go through as pastors and family men. To leave our “Messiah Complex” at the door and not be afraid of what others might think was such a blessing. I am so thankful, that as men would need prayer, we would gather around our brother and lift him up in prayer. There was such a sweet presence of Jehovah.
Second, while I was there, I had a medical issue that required transportation to the E.R. For the folks at Bambi and for Bro. Mike Durbin, I am eternally grateful for you being with me and making sure that everything was alright. It’s not easy getting up at 11:30 p.m. to help a pastor brother and then get the call to come at 3:30 a.m. to pick him up. Brother Mike, thank you for your servant heart.
Next, I am so thankful for opportunity I get to pray for our Associational Pastors every Sunday. To be able to pray for these men each week is a blessing. I am appreciative of the fact that these servants of the Most-High God preach the Word each week for His honor and glory.
I am truly thankful for the leadership of the BSCM. Where there has been a need or concern, they have always been there, not only as someone to encourage, but just being a brother in Christ. Thanks guys!
There are so many areas in which I am grateful in how God has blessed but there is one more item of thanks I want to share. Without the love and support of my wonderful wife, Carol, I would not be the man I am today. Proverbs 31:10, “An excellent wife who can find? For her worth is far above jewels.” As men in ministry know, serving is just as hard on our spouse as it is on us. My wife is my cheerleader, my coach, my listening ear, but most of all she is my prayer warrior. Yes, I am extremely thankful for my bride and the beautiful times that we share together.
In the end, you could say I am truly blessed of God and give Him thanks for those He has brought into my life to encourage me in the work of the Lord.
May each of you have a glorious time of Thanksgiving this year.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ken is the pastor of Community Baptist Church of Hastings. He also serves as moderator of the South-Central Baptist Association.