Our theme this month is Stories of Thanksgiving. It’s very fitting because of our national holiday later this month. But also, because the calendar year is quickly coming to an end and as of today, we’ve lived through 305 days of 2026 and for that alone, we should be grateful. Our series this month will help us see why gratitude isn't just a seasonal mood; it's the result of our living obediently according to the truths of God's Word. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 This month we'll look at five stories that show how people rose above their circumstances by their faith in God and displayed their thanksgiving. Our text this morning is found in the Old Testament book of 2 Samuel, chapter 22. King David is at the twilight of his life, and this chapter is a reflection upon his life and relationship with God and people. He is known as “a man after God's own heart” [1 Samuel 13:14] meaning his desires, worship, and overall life direction aligned with God's will. Very much like David, we all have segments or sections to our lives and probably a few pages of our story that we wish we could erase or simply have a mulligan or a do over. To be fair, we've had lots of good times that might be called "winning streaks." Here in 1 Samuel 22 we see David being honest, human, and hopeful as he replays his life, but he does it in the shadow of God's Greatness and Goodness. 1. The REALITY of life. 2 Samuel 22:4-7a David understood that whether the problems we face are our own doing or someone else's doing, only God can bring deliverance. The tough times are like a gauge, they tell us how real our God is. 2. The RECOGNITION of God's Greatness and Goodness. 2 Samuel 22:1-3 Where do you go when the dark times come? Who or what do you rely upon? Only God can give us a peaceful refuge and an impregnable stronghold. Notice the repeating pronoun, “My”! Question: Is He your God or just a god? 3. The RELATIONSHIP that brings God's intervention. 2 Samuel 22:7b-32 When life turns dark and you start to feel discouraged, lonely, or even like quitting...remember that God hears the voice of those who love Him. The Lord may do a miracle, but more often than not, He will walk with you, strengthen you, and protect you because He has something in mind. Thanksgiving Journal to daily record the moments of God's Greatness and Goodness as we love and live for Him. 4. The REALIZATION that God has a plan for my life. 2 Samuel 22:33-51 God provides both strength and security because He has a plan. But God doesn't just rescue us so we can sit comfortably in our own little kingdom while those around us move one step closer to Hell. God created us to be “salt and light” - to influence our world for His sake. SUMMARY: A quick review of why David was so thankful … #1 – The REALITY of life. It can be tough, unpredictable, and harsh. #2 – The RECOGNITION of God’s Greatness and Goodness. God is transcendent which means He is above, beyond and greater than anything of this world. #3 – The RELATIONSHIP that brings God’s intervention. A personal relationship with God through faith in Jesus unleashes the presence and power of God. #4 – The REALIZATION that God has a plan for my life. Obstacles are nothing more than opportunities to see God work in and through us – Stand Up and Speak Up 2 Samuel 22:47 2 Samuel 22:50