In America, raising a cup is a universal symbol of celebration. Whether it is a toast at a wedding or the victorious hoisting of the Stanley Cup in the NHL, these moments are etched into our collective memory. Cameras capture every angle, ensuring that whether you’re a fan at a Championship game or a joyous wedding guest, your smartphone is poised to help you treasure these memories forever.
Bible talks about raising another cup. It is called the Cup of Salvation.
Psalms 116 verses 13-14 (NIV)
13 I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord.
14 I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.
The first 5 verses of this psalm says God has heard. The next 5 verses says God has helped.
Vows during distress
In the Old Testament times, when a Jewish person goes through distress, he would cry out to God and makes vows to the Lord. It was like saying, “God, if You help me through these hard days, I promise to do something special for You.” Jacob did this when he ran away from his house, fleeing from Esau.
Genesis 28:20 (NIV) Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking …. then the Lord will be my God …and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth.”
Celebration of gratitude
So when the difficult days are over, the one who made the vow to the Lord would go to the temple to offer up a sacrifice. It was called the peace offering. It is a way of saying thank you to God for all the good things He gives us. This was a costly sacrifice because it has to be an animal without blemish. In the New Testament Jesus became our sacrificial offering and thus gave us the Cup of Salvation that we can raise up to God with thanks.
Life Application
The last week of November is often called the Thanksgiving Week. We gather with friends and family, enjoy good food, and have a time of celebration. As our Instagram feeds turn into a mouthwatering feast for the eyes with a variety of turkey dishes and savory apple ciders, let’s not forget to lift our cups of gratitude.
Deutronomy 8:10-11 (NIV): “When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God…”
Pause for a moment, flip through the pages of your calendar, and reminisce about the tough times—the stressful days, the weeks of sickness , and the periods of worry. Recall how, through it all, the Lord delivered you. Let your sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving be the secret ingredient that transforms your Thanksgiving Day into a truly unforgettable celebration in the eyes of the Lord.
Dew Drops of Manna 