Thanksgiving is upon us, bringing all the delicious foods, desserts, and cherished traditions. But beyond the festivities, it’s also a time for thankfulness. I love that Thanksgiving precedes Christmas because it gives us a chance to pause, reflect, and appreciate all the wonderful people and blessings in our lives.
Embracing Thankfulness in Every Season
“Give Thanks in All Circumstances”
As 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us:
“Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”
I’ve always desired to be in God’s will, yet life often presents decisions that leave us uncertain. But this verse clarifies a fundamental aspect of God’s will for us: to be thankful. When we approach life with gratitude, we’re stepping into what God desires for us.
Paul’s message to the Thessalonians wasn’t a light one. These early Christians faced persecution for their faith, yet he encouraged them to stay joyful, pray continuously, and be thankful in every situation. As believers, we too will encounter hardships. But through Christ, we have abundant reasons to live with joy and gratitude.
Practical Ways to Cultivate a Thankful Heart
1. Make a List of Gratitude
This may sound simple, but it’s powerful! Whenever I catch myself complaining or longing for more, I start praying and listing the blessings we already have. Thanking God for our blessings, big or small, lifts our spirits and helps us see His hand in our lives. When we focus on what we’re grateful for, the burdens don’t seem as heavy.
Start small — like I do. First, I thank Jesus for salvation and the freedom to talk to Him. Then, I begin with simple things: the breath in my lungs, my husband, my two daughters, my home, and even my dog. This often opens a floodgate, and I start appreciating all the little conveniences, like a microwave to heat up quick meals for hungry little girls!
2. Pray Over Your Gratitude List
Once you’ve made a list, spend time in prayer, telling it all to God. He desires connection with us and wants to fill us with His peace. When social media or the world tells us we need more, returning to prayer reminds us of what we already have and centers our thoughts on gratitude.
I’ve noticed that whenever I feel downcast or burdened, thanking God for our blessings transforms my thoughts. By focusing on His provisions, I find my heart filled with joy and peace.
3. Share Your Thankfulness with Others
Sharing our gratitude builds our faith and encourages those around us. When we talk about our blessings, we’re testifying to God’s goodness and showing others how He works in our lives. This act of sharing can uplift both the listener and the speaker, reinforcing the joy of God’s work in our lives.
Start with those closest to you, like your spouse or children, and then share with others around you. Gratitude is contagious, and your thankfulness can inspire those around you to reflect on their blessings, too.
Teaching Kids to Be Thankful
Create a “Thankful Turkey” Craft
I found this idea on Busy Toddler’s Instagram and loved how it makes gratitude fun and tangible for kids. Since Thanksgiving often features turkey decor, this craft can help your children visualize the practice of thankfulness while adding a festive touch to your home.
Directions:
- Draw a turkey body on brown paper. I used brown butcher paper I had saved.
- Each day, talk with your child about something they’re thankful for and write it on a feather (cut out from construction paper).
- Attach the feather to the turkey. By the end of November, you’ll have a “full turkey of thankfulness” to display.
This simple activity allows children to think about their blessings and build a heart of gratitude from an early age.
You can see an example of our ‘Thankful Turkey’ this year below! My daughter is three and has come up with lots of ways she is thankful, even her Baby Dolls, Elsa and Anna!
Teaching Thankfulness in Everyday Parenting
Helping kids develop a grateful heart goes beyond seasonal crafts—it’s about modeling and incorporating gratitude into daily routines. Here are some simple ways to nurture thankfulness in everyday life:
1. Bedtime Gratitude Practice
One beautiful way to end the day is by creating a bedtime routine where kids share three things they’re thankful for. This practice not only helps them reflect on the blessings of the day but also encourages positive thoughts before they go to sleep. It’s a small habit that can foster a lifelong attitude of gratitude.
2. Modeling Gratitude Daily
Children often learn by observing the actions and attitudes of those around them, so modeling gratitude as parents is essential. Share with your kids what you’re thankful for, whether it’s a sunny day, a kind neighbor, or a delicious meal. When they see you expressing gratitude, they’ll understand that thankfulness is something valuable and worth practicing.
This is something I try to do during our day, especially when I am frustrated. I am trying to teach my daughters that even when things don’t go our way or we don’t have what we want, there are many things are we thankful for.
These small habits can help children understand that thankfulness isn’t just for Thanksgiving—it’s a way to approach life, find joy in small blessings, and appreciate the everyday moments that God provides.
What Are You Thankful For?
How do you celebrate Thanksgiving, and what blessings are you thankful for this year?
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