How to say a Thanksgiving Prayer

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By MDilwicius
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say a Thanksgiving Prayer

Sharing what you are thankful for around the dinner table is one thing, but many times a Thanksgiving dinner is preceded by a prayer. Here's how to say a Thanksgiving Prayer that will uplift your heart, the hearts of your guests and center everyone on what it means to "Give Thanks."

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

A Thanksgiving Prayer is more meaningful when everyone does it together. You can have everyone hold hands around the dinner table, or simply gather in one common room. You can decide before hand to have one person pray (such as the host/hostess or head of the family) or do a "pop corn" prayer, where you go around in the circle and each person says something.
Step 2

Once you have decided what prayer format you wish to use and have gathered everyone together, begin by closing your eyes (and ask everyone else to do the same) and bow your heads.
Step 3

Speak to God with an open heart and remember what you have gathered together for- Thanksgiving- to give thanks. Speak out loud so that everyone can hear. You can address God anyway you wish, such as "Dear God; Heavenly Father; Dear Lord; Father"
Step 4

A good model to follow while praying is by remembering the acronym ACTS.
The "A" is for Adoration. Express to God how great you think He is. The "C" is for confession. You should confess to God your sins and short comings. The "T" is for Thanks. Express to God what you are thankful for and Thank Him for what he had given/provided you with. The "S" is for Supplication. This means praying for other people. This could be praying for those gathered there with you, or thanking God that they are there.
Step 5

You can use this opportunity of prayer time with your guests to have each person go around and thank God him/herself for what they are particularly thankful for this Thanksgiving.
Step 6

If only one person is praying, remind him/her/yourself to not drag it out too long. Your guests are hungry and want to eat the feast awaiting them on the table. (they can probably smell it too, which will make them more anxious)
Step 7

You may want to thank God for the food you are about to eat and ask His blessing on it. The most common way of concluding a prayer is by saying "Amen."