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A Feast for the Soul: Family Devotionals Before Thanksgiving Dinner

As the aroma of Thanksgiving feasts fills the air and families gather around tables adorned with gratitude, there's an opportunity to boost the spirit before indulging in the bountiful meal. Today we are sharing four heartwarming devotionals that are designed to usher in a sense of thankfulness and unity. Each devotional provides moments of connection and reflection, deepening bonds as we prepare our hearts to celebrate Thanksgiving in the most meaningful way—with family and a spirit of gratitude.

Devotional 1: "Overflowing Gratitude"

Scripture: Psalm 107:1 (NIV)
"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."

This devotional, titled "Overflowing Gratitude," centers around Psalm 107:1, urging individuals to give thanks to the Lord for His enduring love. It encourages self-reflection on moments of experiencing God's goodness, emphasizing gratitude beyond positive situations. The devotional suggests actively engaging in sharing examples of blessings and concludes with a prayer for nurturing hearts of gratitude and encouragement to let gratitude transform one's perspective.

Download the PDF here

Devotional 2: "Thanksgiving Joy"

Scripture: Philippians 4:4 (NIV)
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"

The devotional, "Thanksgiving Joy," centers on Philippians 4:4, encouraging individuals to rejoice in the Lord always. It reflects on the connection between gratitude and joy, emphasizing how thanksgiving can bring about a deep sense of rejoicing. The reflection prompts consideration of moments when gratitude has brought joy and challenges readers to find joy in expressing thanks for both blessings and lessons learned. The prayer seeks help in nurturing a spirit of gratitude for lasting joy, and the encouragement wishes for the joy of the Lord to fill hearts as gratitude becomes a testimony of being anchored in His love during Thanksgiving.

Download the PDF here

Devotional 3: "The Table of Thanksgiving"

Scripture: Psalm 23:5 (NIV)
"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows."

The devotional, "The Table of Thanksgiving," draws inspiration from Psalm 23:5, presenting a metaphorical "table of thanksgiving" symbolizing God's provision and abundance. It encourages reflection on areas of abundant provision, moments of feeling God's presence in challenges and recognizing His overflowing love. The application suggests intentionally acknowledging God's presence and sharing stories of His generosity during Thanksgiving, fostering gratitude and appreciation. The prayer expresses thanks for God's blessings and seeks His guidance in recognizing His hand at work. The encouragement wishes for a sense of awe and gratitude to fill hearts at the Thanksgiving table.

Download the PDF here

Devotional 4: "A Thankful Heart"

Scripture: Colossians 3:15 (NIV)
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."

The devotional, "A Thankful Heart," focuses on Colossians 3:15, highlighting the connection between gratitude and the peace of Christ. It encourages reflection on moments when gratitude has brought inner peace and suggests considering how a thankful attitude can impact relationships. Individuals are encouraged to commit to nurturing a grateful heart as a daily habit, extending peace and gratitude to others, and fostering unity within the community. The prayer expresses gratitude for the peace that comes from a thankful heart and seeks guidance in expressing gratitude in all circumstances. The encouragement emphasizes letting gratitude be the key to opening the door to inner peace and unity.

Download the PDF here

May your Thanksgiving Celebration be Abundant in Love, Faith, and the Warmth of Family

As you incorporate these family devotionals into your Thanksgiving traditions, may the moments of reflection and gratitude become threads weaving the fabric of togetherness through shared faith and love. May the essence of thanksgiving linger in your hearts, transforming the gathering around your table into a truly blessed and joy-filled occasion. Let these moments of devotion be a foundation for lasting memories, reinforcing the significance of gratitude not just during the holiday season but throughout the entire year. 

Happy Thanksgiving,

Your Friends from Torrance Church of Christ

Faith in Action: Christian Values and Veterans Day

As we celebrate Veterans Day, let us remember that the values we hold as Christians—service, gratitude, unity, and protection—resonate with the dedication and sacrifice of our veterans. Take a moment to express your appreciation and, in doing so, live out the call to love one another and honor those who have served with distinction and honor.

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Sacrifice and Service: The Bible emphasizes the value of service and sacrifice. Veterans exemplify these values through their willingness to put their lives on the line to protect their fellow citizens and preserve the freedoms we hold dear. The ultimate act of sacrifice is often seen as a reflection of Jesus' teachings about selflessness and love for others.

Gratitude and Thankfulness: The Bible encourages us to be thankful and express gratitude. Veterans Day is a chance for us to extend our appreciation to those who have served, acknowledging their dedication and the sacrifices they and their families have made.

Promoting Peace: Believers are called to be peacemakers, veterans contribute to the cause of peace through their commitment to safeguard and defend their nation and its values, helping to maintain harmony, stability, and security in a world often fraught with conflict.

Unity and Brotherhood: Christianity underscores the significance of unity and brotherhood among all people. The military is a place where individuals from various backgrounds come together and stand united with the common goal of safeguarding our nation, mirroring Christ’s teaching about loving our neighbors as ourselves.

Protecting and Defending: The Bible acknowledges the role of protectors and defenders. Veterans have held very important roles to protect and defend their nations. This idea aligns with the principles of protecting and advocating for the vulnerable.

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As Christians, we have a unique opportunity to extend Christ's love and support to our veterans. We can assist them through acts of service, gratitude, and advocacy. Below are examples of ways that you can make a difference in a veteran's life. We’ve included some links and invite you to take a moment to explore the valuable resources and information contained in the links below. These resources cover a range of topics, from educational content to support for veterans and their families. Your involvement can make a difference, so please click on these links and discover the opportunities they offer. Join us in learning, supporting, and honoring those who have served. Together, we can create positive change and make a meaningful impact. 
***If you find a link particularly inspiring, share it with your friends, family, and social network.***

Say "Thank You": When you encounter a veteran, a simple "thank you for your service" can mean a lot. It shows your appreciation and recognition of their sacrifices.
Helpful information about sending thank you letters and more!
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Listen to Their Stories: Veterans often have unique experiences to share. Listening to their stories honors their service and provides an opportunity to learn from their wisdom.
There are many stories to hear
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Show Compassion: Be empathetic to veterans' unique challenges. Sometimes, simply being a compassionate and understanding friend or neighbor can have a positive impact.

Support Veteran-Owned Businesses: Look for local businesses owned by veterans and make an effort to support them. This can include restaurants, shops, or service providers.
Find a Veteran Owned Business in your State
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Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to veteran-focused organizations or local veterans' hospitals. Even a few hours of your time can make a difference in the lives of veterans.
There are so many diverse ways you can volunteer. Check out the many different ways below. You might be surprised by the different ways you can help. 
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Assist with Household Chores: If you know a veteran who may need help with yard work, home repairs, or other tasks, offer your assistance. Small acts of kindness can be very meaningful.

Send Care Packages: Send care packages to active-duty service members. Organizations often facilitate this, or you can send packages directly to deployed troops.
Learn more about sending a care package
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Attend an Event: Participate in local Veterans Day parades, Memorial Day events, and other gatherings that honor veterans. Your presence shows your support.
Find events in your area
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Donate to Veterans' Charities: Contribute to reputable charities that support veterans and their families. Even small donations can make a difference.
There are so many different ways to donate. You can donate directly to a family with a specific need, set up a monthly donation to a charity, and so much more. 
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Assist with Benefits: If a veteran you know is navigating the VA (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs) system, offer to help with paperwork or accompany them to appointments.

Hire Veterans: If you're in a position to hire employees, consider veterans for job opportunities. Their unique skills and discipline can be valuable to your organization.
Share employment opportunities with Vets
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Educate Yourself: Learn about veterans' issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), homelessness, and employment challenges. Understanding these issues can help you be more supportive.
There are so many educational resources 
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Offer a Ride: If you know a veteran who has trouble with transportation, offer to give them a ride to medical appointments, shopping, or other necessary errands.

Advocate for Veterans: Support policies and programs that benefit veterans. Contact your local representatives and advocate for veterans' rights and well-being.
Learn more about becoming an advocate 
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Respect Military Customs: If you're attending a military ceremony, funeral, or other event, familiarize yourself with military customs and etiquette to show respect.
Learn more about military traditions and customs 
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Whether we offer a listening ear, engage in local initiatives, or provide practical assistance, our appreciation encourages and uplifts. By standing for policies and programs prioritizing veterans' well-being, we demonstrate our commitment to caring for those who have sacrificed so much for our nation. Above all, let's remember to pray for veterans and their families, asking for God's peace and blessings upon those who have served. By showing kindness and support, we reflect the love of Christ in action, honoring the sacrifices made by our veterans and embracing the opportunity to be a source of comfort and encouragement to those who have served. Thank you for your time and commitment to making a difference in the lives of veterans. 

- Torrance Church of Christ

The Art of Discernment

In a rapidly changing world filled with diverse opinions and conflicting principles, discernment becomes an indispensable compass for Christians seeking to live a life that fits God's will. We will explore the significance of discernment as a guiding principle, empowering believers to make wise decisions, distinguish truth from deception, and deepen their spiritual walk with God.

Traits and Features of Discernment 

Rooted in wisdom, humility, and prayerfulness, discernment draws from a deep knowledge of God's Word, a spirit-filled life, and a disciplined mind to thoughtfully maneuver through trials and adversity with keen perception in accordance with God’s volition. Insight into the various traits and features that consolidate discernment can expand the development and efficiency of which you use it. 

Wisdom: Wisdom is the foundational trait of discernment. It involves the ability to apply knowledge and understanding to real-life situations and make righteous decisions. Proverbs 3:21-24: My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
Prioritizing God's Favor over Man’s: Rather than succumbing to societal pressures or seeking validation from others, discernment involves aligning one's choices with God's will, acknowledging His authority, and seeking to please Him above all else, even if it means going against popular opinions or expectations. 1 Corinthians 10:27-28: If an unbeliever invites you to a meal and you want to go, eat whatever is put before you without raising questions of conscience. But if someone says to you, “This has been offered in sacrifice,” then do not eat it, both for the sake of the one who told you and for the sake of conscience.
Unconditional Love: Discernment is not about harsh judgment but about understanding and love. Romans 14:1-3: Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters. One person’s faith allows them to eat anything, but another, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them. 
The Fruit of the Spirit: Discernment involves evaluating whether the traits that make up the Fruit of the Spirit are evident in a person's life. Galatians 5:22-23: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Keeping the Right Company: Surrounding yourself with others who continually live out God's will encourages understanding and application of discernment in real-life situations by guarding against individual biases or blind spots, enabling a more well-rounded and spiritually-grounded discernment practice. Proverbs 27:17: As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
A Disciplined Mind: Discernment requires a disciplined mind that can think critically and evaluate situations with conscientious wisdom. Romans 12:2: Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Prayerfulness: Maintain discernment by seeking God in prayer and ask Him for his guidance. Psalm 119:125: I am your servant; give me discernment that I may understand your statutes.
Practice: Discernment is not a one-time event but a skill that requires continuous practice. Just like any skill, discernment improves over time as you consistently exercise it. Hebrews 5:14: But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
Humility: A discerning person recognizes their need for God’s guidance and does not rely solely on their own understanding. Proverbs 28:11: The rich are wise in their own eyes; one who is poor and discerning sees how deluded they are.
Alertness: Discernment requires spiritual alertness to recognize potential deception or false teachings. 2 Corinthians 11:12-14: And I will keep on doing what I am doing in order to cut the ground from under those who want an opportunity to be considered equal with us in the things they boast about. For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.
Knowledge of God's Word: Discernment involves a deep understanding of God's Word, the Bible. Proverbs 8:8-9: All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse. To the discerning all of them are right; they are upright to those who have found knowledge.
Accountability: Discerning individuals are more likely to hold themselves accountable for their actions. Proverbs 15:31: Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise.
Self-control: Those who utilize discernment are able to resist impulsive reflexes that cause contention. Proverbs 15:28: The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.

Discernment is Not Judgment

In John 7:24, Jesus instructs: “Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.” Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 2:15, Paul states: “The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things.” But in Matthew 7:1-2, we read: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” 

A bit confusing, huh? The confusion comes from the fact that discernment and judgment are closely related, with a very fine line separating them. 

James 3:13-17 sheds some light on the distinction: “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”

As you can see, the key difference between judgment and discernment lies in the motives and approach. The chart below provides insight through comparison: 

In Short

Discernment is essential for knowing and aligning with God's will for your life. It calls for a balanced approach to evaluate situations and others. As you practice discernment, you learn to discern between your own desires, worldly influences, and God's purposes. Regular application of discernment allows you to recognize the subtle movements of the spirit by becoming attuned to the divine promptings. It’s like fine-tuning your spiritual ears to hear God’s voice amidst the noise of the world. It will prevent you from making hasty decisions by enabling you to identify misleading and deceptive influences in your life. It requires humility, seeking God's help, and being open to correction. Ultimately, discernment contributes to a life marked by an unwavering commitment to God’s truth. We encourage you to practice discernment so you are able to use this decisive tool to navigate life's complications and grow in spiritual maturity.

- Torrance Church of Christ