“What is a Thanksgiving Box?” our youngest daughter asked our oldest. “It was a decorated shoe box we would fill with strips of paper outlining what we are thankful for. We’d fill it all year long and then open it on Thanksgiving Day.” Our seventeen-year-old recounted with a nostalgic smile on her lips. “Why don’t…
Category: Thanksgiving
Presence Over Perfection
Do your holiday expectations of yourself weigh on your shoulders? What would Jesus want for us to do? How might be encourage each other to enjoy our favorite people this holiday season?
Finding a Heart of Gratitude
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6 NIV This next week, those of us in the United States will celebrate Thanksgiving. We remember what the Pilgrims did, thanking God for seeing them through their first year here in their…
Choosing Thanksgiving
I sit this year with a full heart. But it wasn’t always that way. A few years back, my heart was burdened with a weight I never thought I would lose. Our family had just come through a very difficult time. Two daughters had significant, different health diagnoses. Both required constant monitoring and awakening in…
Not Feeling Thankful?
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6 NIV Soon, those of us in the United States will celebrate Thanksgiving. We remember what the Pilgrims did, thanking God for seeing them through their first year here in their settlement. They…
A Habit of Thanksgiving
“What is a Thanksgiving Box?” our youngest daughter asked our oldest. “It was a decorated shoe box we would fill with strips of paper outlining what we are thankful for. We’d fill it all year long and then open it on Thanksgiving Day.” Our seventeen-year-old recounted with a nostalgic smile on her lips. “Why don’t…
With Sincere Thanksgiving
The moment I awoke, the worries flooded my mind. I had grave concerns, troubles on my heart, and loved ones facing challenges. I began my daily exercise routine, turning on the praise music. Listen to the words. Recall God is bigger than any and all of these concerns, I told myself. I refocused on the…
Believing Hearts Rejoice
When I couldn’t understand why God allowed what He had, I only needed to learn from the sweet psalmist- God can be trusted- even when, especially when, I can’t understand. And when I learned to truly surrender to Him, my broken heart could truly rejoice.
God Authored Thanksgiving
I had finally done it! I had accomplished that almost impossible goal. I couldn’t keep it to myself. I had to tell someone, anyone. Right after I told God. Oh, I know, He already knew. In fact, He’d authored it. But I had to share it with Him anyway. “Thank You Lord for this! I…
Thank You Fathers!
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.” I Corinthians 16:13 This weekend, in the United States, we will celebrate Father’s Day. While much of the time it’s the mother who receives accolades for raising children, I know I could not do it without my husband. I know…