Thanksgiving Sermon Illustrations For 2023

Introduction

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the blessings we have received throughout the year. It is also a time to give thanks to God for His provision and grace. As a pastor or church leader, you may be looking for sermon illustrations that will help your congregation focus on gratitude and thanksgiving. In this article, we will explore some of the best Thanksgiving sermon illustrations for 2023.

The Harvest

One of the most powerful illustrations of Thanksgiving is the harvest. The Bible is full of references to the harvest, and it can be used to illustrate the abundance of blessings we have received. You can use stories of farmers who have worked hard to produce a bountiful harvest, or you can talk about the importance of planting seeds in order to reap a harvest later on.

Example:

There was once a farmer who worked tirelessly to prepare his fields for planting. He spent long hours tilling the soil, planting the seeds, and watering the crops. As the harvest season approached, he watched with joy as the fruits of his labor began to appear. The fields were filled with ripe, juicy vegetables and plump, sweet fruit. The farmer was filled with gratitude for the abundance of blessings he had received.

The Table

Another powerful illustration of Thanksgiving is the table. The table is where we gather with family and friends to share a meal, and it can be used to illustrate the importance of community and fellowship. You can talk about the joy and warmth that comes from sharing a meal together, and how it reflects the love and grace of God.

Example:

The table is a place of fellowship and community, where we gather to share a meal and enjoy each other’s company. As we sit around the table, we are reminded of the blessings we have received, and we are filled with gratitude for the people in our lives who love and support us. The table is a symbol of God’s love and grace, and it reminds us of the importance of community and fellowship.

The Psalm of Thanksgiving

The book of Psalms is filled with songs of praise and thanksgiving, and it can be used to inspire and uplift your congregation. You can read a Psalm of thanksgiving during your sermon, or you can encourage your congregation to read a Psalm at home during the week leading up to Thanksgiving.

Example:

Psalm 100 is a beautiful Psalm of thanksgiving that reminds us to “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” This Psalm encourages us to give thanks to God for His goodness and faithfulness, and it reminds us of the blessings we have received.

The Sacrifice of Thanksgiving

In the book of Leviticus, we are told to offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving to God. This sacrifice was a way of expressing gratitude and devotion to God, and it can be used to illustrate the importance of giving back to God.

Example:

Just as the Israelites offered a sacrifice of thanksgiving to God, we too can offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving by giving back to God. Whether it is through our time, talents, or finances, we can express our gratitude to God by giving back to Him. This act of sacrifice reflects our love and devotion to God, and it reminds us of the blessings we have received.

The Story of the Pilgrims

The story of the Pilgrims is a classic Thanksgiving illustration that can be used to inspire and encourage your congregation. You can talk about their journey to the New World, their struggles and hardships, and their ultimate triumph in the face of adversity.

Example:

The story of the Pilgrims is a story of perseverance and faith. They faced many challenges and hardships on their journey to the New World, but they never lost sight of their faith in God. They gave thanks to God for His provision and grace, even in the midst of adversity. Their story is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, perseverance, and gratitude.

The Blessing of Family

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, and it can be used to illustrate the importance of family and the blessings that come from having loved ones in our lives.

Example:

The blessing of family is a precious gift from God. As we gather with our loved ones around the Thanksgiving table, we are reminded of the love and support that we have in our lives. Our families are a source of strength and encouragement, and they remind us of the goodness of God. Let us give thanks for the blessing of family, and let us cherish the time we have with them.

The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful force that can transform our lives. It can help us to see the blessings in our lives, even in the midst of adversity, and it can fill us with joy and peace.

Example:

When we cultivate a spirit of gratitude, we are able to see the blessings in our lives, even in the midst of adversity. We are able to find joy and peace in the midst of trials, and we are able to trust in God’s goodness and faithfulness. Let us cultivate a spirit of gratitude, and let us give thanks to God for all that He has done for us.

The Joy of Giving

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks, but it is also a time to give back. You can use this illustration to encourage your congregation to give to those in need, whether it is through a food drive, a donation to a charity, or simply by reaching out to someone who is in need of encouragement.

Example:

As we give to those in need, we experience the joy of giving. We are able to share the blessings that we have received with others, and we are able to make a difference in their lives. Let us give generously to those in need, and let us experience the joy that comes from giving.

The Gift of Salvation

Ultimately, the greatest gift that we have received is the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. You can use this illustration to remind your congregation of the amazing grace and love of God, and to encourage them to give thanks for this incredible gift.

Example:

The gift of salvation is the greatest gift that we have received. Through Jesus Christ, we have been redeemed and forgiven, and we have been given new life. Let us give thanks to God for this incredible gift, and let us share it with others so that they too may experience the love and grace of God.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the blessings we have received, and to give thanks to God for His provision and grace. As a pastor or church leader, you can use these Thanksgiving sermon illustrations to inspire and encourage your congregation. Whether you choose to use the harvest, the table, the Psalms, the story of the Pilgrims, or any other illustration, may your sermon be filled with gratitude and joy, and may your congregation be inspired to give thanks to God for all that He has done for us.