Happy Thanksgiving! It’s a day officially marked on our calendars—the fourth Thursday of November—inviting us to pause, to reflect, and to give thanks for our blessings. On the day of Thanksgiving, we spend time with our loved ones eating great food and watching football, but gratitude isn’t meant for just one day a year.
The Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: “Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
But do we actually do that?
Do we give thanks in all circumstances, or do we just wait for reminders from national holidays?
Sometimes, our lives can nudge us into appreciation in unexpected ways. Whether it be a scratchy throat, a sleepless night, or even a lingering stressor, sometimes our circumstances can make us forget the good times. What if, instead of complaining about negative circumstances when they come, we noticed and were grateful for the positive ones?
Did you wake up with a scratchy throat this morning? No? Be thankful.
Did you toss and turn in your bed last night? No? Be thankful.
Can you walk and talk and work and play? Be thankful.
Suddenly, by choosing a heart of gratitude, the simple act of walking, running, or just breathing deeply can feel like something extraordinary. These moments remind us: life itself is a gift.
It was G.K. Chesterton who once said, “The worst moment for an atheist is when he is really thankful and has no one to thank.” But we, as Christians, know the truth of the matter. We do have Someone to thank. The apostle James wrote these words in his epistle:
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17)
Every good gift is from above. So then, join me this day in thanking our God:
Thank You, Father, for our health.
Thank You for the food on our tables.
Thank You for family, friends, and the safety we live under.
Thank You for saving us through Your Son, Jesus.
Thank You for the ability to worship You freely.
Thank You for football, our Thanksgiving feasts, and for the change of seasons that refreshes our perspective.
Thank You, Father, for the many gifts that You bestow upon us.
As you gather with family, friends, or loved ones this week, I hope you can notice the blessings that you’d typically overlook. Reflect on the gifts—seen and unseen—that make your life rich beyond measure.
This Thanksgiving, my prayer for you is simple: that you experience a profound sense of gratitude, not just for the big moments, but for the quiet, ordinary ones as well.
And I know it goes without saying, but I am grateful for you as well. Thank you for taking a moment to read this letter, reflect on your life, and celebrate the goodness of God with me.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Blessings,
