1 Timothy 5:5 “Now she who is a widow indeed and who has been left alone, has fixed her hope on God and continues in entreaties and prayers night and day.”

Thanksgiving is a time to consider our blessings. This should be our attitude all year long, but since 1863 our country has celebrated this holiday in response to a proclamation made by President Abraham Lincoln. He declared a national holiday to be held on the last Thursday of November to “praise our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.”

Every good and perfect gift we have received has come from the Father of lights. He gives us life. He gives us family and friends. He gives us homes, clothing, and food to eat. He provides for us physically and emotionally. And He has made a way for us to have a relationship with Him through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

In the midst of counting all our blessings, God also expects us to think of others. Throughout the Bible He shows His concern for those who are suffering and struggling with difficulty. I am grateful for God’s great compassion, as we will all have times of distress, but when we are in times of blessing and rejoicing we will please God if we use our resources to help others.

Paul left careful instructions to the church about how to care for people in times of need. He specifically mentions older widows – women who had lost their husbands and were financially struggling. He reminds the young Timothy that these ladies who have been left alone without a family to support them have no recourse but to fix their hope on God. He hears their desperate prayers and often uses other believers to provide for them. What a blessing to be part of God’s provision for those in need. And what a comfort to be assured that He hears us in our time of need and will provide.

There have been times when our family has been strapped financially, but God has always been faithful. He cared for us by different means and through the help of caring people. I am grateful to be able to share this blessing with others.

Saturday morning Dad and I spent a few hours at the town’s food pantry. We were so blessed to help, along with other families & college students, to distribute Thanksgiving baskets, groceries, and toiletries to over 100 families who are entering this holiday season in great need. The joy of giving was just as great as the joy of receiving.

As you enter this Thanksgiving season count your many blessings and pray about how you can share your wealth with those who are in need. Someday the tables may be turned and you might be on the receiving end of such a blessing. But there is no need to fear. When all you can do is fix your hope on God, He will be faithful to provide. And He often uses His children to do it! — Love, Mama