Thanksgiving is often a season of expressing gratitude for all that we have been given by God and for His faithfulness to us. Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” As you likely already know this is the Scripture and basis for the well-known banner hymn “Great is Your Faithfulness”. As we reflect on the immensity of God’s faithfulness and goodness, may we be comforted and truly thankful. If you are a senior pastor or a part of church leadership you should set the example of thankfulness and gratitude. Scripture encourages us to say “thank you” and there is tremendous power in those two simple words. Here are some points to get you started:
“Whom should you include?” Include everyone who has been a trustworthy, dependable and steadfast supporter. Reflect upon 1 Corinthians 4:2 ““Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful”. Thank those who have been consistent and faithful stewards to the church this last year.
“What is faithful stewardship?” It means to be trustworthy, dependable and steadfast in doing what is right before God. This is the time to be pastoral by individually and personally thanking those who have encouraged you by their example of faithfulness.
“When should you send a thank you note?” Start today! Do not rely on year-end giving statements for 2017 as those do not go out till NEXT YEAR! Set aside some time between now and the Sunday after Thanksgiving to create at least ten handwritten thank you cards.
“What should I tell them?” Show your gratitude for their on-going generosity by specifically telling them how others have been tangibly blessed through their faithful stewardship: what mission trips have been funded, churches planted, ministries introduced and lives touched because of their commitment. Remember to tell them how much it means to you, those impacted, and how it grows God’s kingdom here on Earth.
At Impact Stewardship we wanted to say “Thank You” to all the senior pastors and church leaders who have sacrificially given to their congregation. We pray this Thanksgiving will be a personally restful and powerful one as you start to thank those that have shown faithful stewardship.
Happy Thanksgiving!
