Turkey, football and...God? Millions of Americans will sit down to a turkey dinner, watch multiple football games and profess thanksgiving to God.

Sadly, in many respects it will also be done in that order. People want touchdowns, drumsticks and stuffing before they actually acknowledge God and thank Him. It once again becomes a question of priorities.

The question for us is, do we fall into that same trap? I speak not of the day of Thanksgiving, but rather when we come before God in prayer. What are our priorities when we pray before God? Do we ask for the touchdowns, drumsticks and stuffing before giving Him praise and thanks? It is a trap one can fall into all too easily.

It is interesting that thanksgiving, in terms of praise to God, is one of the "megathemes" of the book of Psalms. The words praise and praises are used a combined 182 times in the book of Psalms! Can there be any question that the psalmists were clearly expressing heartfelt devotion and thanksgiving? It is only through this type of praise that we come to understand and recognize God's greatness.

As we begin to lead a prayer life filled more with thanksgiving, we recognize more fully God's power; His sovereignty over every situation in our lives. It takes the focus off self and puts it back where it rightfully needs to be—on God and His love for us.

Psalm 150 is a powerful crescendo to the book of Psalms. Notice verses 1-2: "Praise the LORD! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty firmament! Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to His excellent greatness!" It is an example of powerful, awe-inspiring praise and thanksgiving to God. It literally focuses everything around us back to Him and acknowledges Him as the priority in our lives.

Let's enjoy this coming Thanksgiving and be reminded of our need to come before God first and foremost in praise and thanksgiving in our prayer life. Then we can truly enjoy the touchdowns, drumsticks and stuffing. UN