Genuine Thanksgiving, True Freedom

There’s more to being thankful
than promptly saying so;
though this is quite important, 
far more than most folks know.
To show appreciation 
for benefit and gift,
we need to do some thinking
before our voice we lift.

This blessing we call freedom
has really cost a price;
to others we’re indebted,
who made the sacrifice.
But there’s no way to tell them;
they’ve long passed off the scene.
How can we show we’re grateful—
two centuries lie between?

It’s wonderful to ponder
that we can show our thanks
by passing on to others.
who follow in our ranks,
bequests of noble living
and sacrifices too;
to win the lost for Jesus;
no greater thing we’ll do.

Our wars have been most costly—
the losses have been great;
and sadly, after victory,
oft’ there has smoldered hate.
But those who’ve borne the Gospel
of love to distant lands
have turned the tide of history;
herein true freedom stands.

That nation but is blessed,
which owns Jehovah God;
to live for selfish pleasure
will surely curse the sod.
What glory then to follow
in paths the saints have trod,
and publish wide the message
of Christ, the Son of God.

Thus, do we truly worship
with heart and soul and mind?
Then too, are we committed,
our hearts fully resigned—
to pass along to others
the grace bestowed on us
and carry high with honor
the banner of the Cross?

Can gratitude be real,
and genuine our love,
unless the Holy Spirit
controls us from above?
This world vies for affection,
distracts us—is the word;
unless we firmly purpose
to make Christ Jesus Lord.

Our Captain of Salvation
gave all—kept nothing back;
let us as faithful soldiers
in loyalty not lack.
Of course, our means and money,
and certainly much time,
must be upon the altar,
to make our thanks sublime.

And then, our sons and daughters—
pray that they heed the call;
are they too good to offer,
to Him who gave his all?
Often Uncle Sam demands them,
of course, they have to go;
careers with greater honors,
God offers, would you know?

The Bible strongly warns us,
we dare not settle down
to soft, indulgent living,
if we would win a crown. 
Rise up then, fellow comrade,
let’s go at Christ’s command,
clad in the Gospel armor,
in His great might we’ll stand!

America’s survival
depends on us, full well,
enlisting in the conflict, 
against the powers of hell.
God has no other recourse,
to win this world from sin;
to show we’re truly grateful
let’s all, give all, for Him.

The glories now awaiting 
the faithful ones and true,
and fellowship untainted,
where everything is new.
The honor of His “Well done,”
our souls shall then enthrall;
and sorrow all forgotten,
Heaven will be worth it all.

fpn / undated



Picture: depositphotos.com #59568845, standard license