we have just celebrated our 50th anniversary and enter November, a season of thankfulness, I’ m reminded of the scripture found in 1 Thessalonians 5:18( KJV), which instructs us,“ In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Being thankful is not about what we have, but who has us. Paul says that I have learned to be content in whatever state I am in, which is a true expression of thankfulness.

“ I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength”( Phillipians 4:11-13, NIV).

Just because God has called us doesn’ t guarantee happiness; sometimes, the only joy in it may

be just that, knowing you are walking in the will of God. Being thankful means knowing that we can trust God, knowing that He cares for us. Trusting God is not about knowing that He will do what we want; instead, the very meaning of life rests within the call and purpose for which we were created.

All these scriptures point to one thing: I am to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto me( Matthew 6:33). I look at great men and women of God, and I realize they’ ve had to walk through severe difficulties to accomplish God’ s will in their life, which reminds me that we are truly in spiritual warfare. As the Bible says, we walk by faith, not by sight. If you, like me, find yourselves in difficult times, hold on to the very foundation that holds you. We can walk through difficulties knowing that Jesus has us in the palm of His hand, and we can have peace in the midst of the storm. While these times can be

hard, God is preparing and molding us for greater victories. He is leading us from faith to faith, accomplishing His will and purpose. We were created for such a time as this.

May I encourage you to trust Jesus and hold onto His unchanging hand; He has us and the future in His control. In all things, I am thankful that God has found me worthy. I am grateful He has chosen to use me as a servant dedicated to His purpose. God is in control; He has us in the palm of His hands. We can trust Jesus. Follow Him. CMA

John Sr and Becky Ogden, John serves as CEO / Chairman of the Board of Directors.

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