As I thought about a theme for this year’s Thanksgiving sonnet-prayer, I was struck by the gratitude Paul felt and expressed for being able to contribute to the growth of the saints after they came to Christ. This gratitude appears in three of his letters, one from early in his ministry and two from later. In the letter to the Philippian church, especially, he remarked that even though dying and going to be with Christ would be wonderful, he knew it was important to remain in the here and now because there was still fruitful ministry for him to do. This is true for all of us. Until God retrieves our spirits, he intends us to continue to enjoy every opportunity to serve one another in his name and by his grace. Let’s celebrate this gift together with this prayer.
1 Thessalonians 3:9–10 For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, as we pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith?
Romans 1:9–12 God, whom I serve in my spirit by preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness that I continually remember you always in my prayers, asking that somehow by God’s will I may now at last succeed in coming to you. For I long to see you, so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you, that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.
Philippians 1:3, 24–25 I thank my god every time I remember you in prayer. … To remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith.
Today, Lord Jesus, we recall in prayer
The friends whom we have helped in times of need
With the specific grace we had to share
So faith would grow because of our good deed.
We celebrate with them the gifts of grace
That we received as they served in your name
To make us strong enough to run our race
With fortitude, and so be crowned with fame.
For all the joy we feel before you, Lord,
We offer thanks and earnest, grateful praise,
Anticipating all that you will do.
We long to live and serve with one accord,
Convinced you will continue to amaze
With grace that will refresh and see us through.
Discover more from Promises for the Battle
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Promises for the Battle 
Thank you for sending this year’s Thanksgiving sonnet, Doug. Every year for many, many years!
A great phrase—of many—this one in your first paragraph: Until God retrieves our spirits… What a delightful word picture!
Linda and I are gradually packing and preparing to be on our way south Sunday. Gone Nov 30 to Dec 30, eleven of those days completely off the electronic grid—a definite first for me.
Enjoy Thanksgiving and Christmas, hopefully with family. I’ve said it in years past and now again in agreement with your sonnet, There’s much to be grateful for!
Ted
>
Posted by ted & linda pampeyan | 24 November 2025, 12:46