Ah, here we are—November! The month when leaves take their final, glorious bow, the aroma of all things pumpkin spice fills the air, and we get to savor the cozy comforts of sweaters and scarves. But beyond the pumpkin pies and harvest tables lies the true gift of this season: gratitude.

As we enter this month, traditionally marked by thanksgiving, we’re reminded of God’s unchanging goodness and the abundant blessings He showers over our lives. For some, Thanksgiving stirs warm memories of family gatherings and laughter; for others, it’s a reminder of heartache or empty chairs at the table. Wherever you are on that spectrum, my prayer is that you’ll find refuge in the One who is always present, always faithful, and always worthy of our thanks.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all that we don’t have or everything that seems to be going wrong. Life is full of its own trials and little heartbreaks—believe me, I understand! But did you know that cultivating gratitude isn’t just a nice idea? It’s actually a command in Scripture, a posture that brings our hearts back to the truth of God’s goodness.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 tells us to "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (ESV). That “in all circumstances” part? That means both in the blessings and in the difficulties. A thankful heart isn’t rooted in what we have or lack; it’s anchored in who God is. And that’s something no one can take away from us.

We don’t need to pretend that everything is easy. If you’re like me, you’ve probably faced a few Novembers where you felt anything but thankful. Maybe you’re carrying a hurt, a disappointment, or a burden too heavy to bear. If that’s where you are, let me assure you that God sees you, loves you, and is close to you.

Psalm 34:18 reminds us, "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit" (ESV). When we feel like we have nothing to give, we can offer God our gratitude simply because He is with us. We don’t have to understand it all, but we can trust the One who holds us through it all. In fact, some of the most powerful testimonies of faith are from those who, in their pain, chose gratitude as their anchor.

November isn’t just about turkey and stuffing. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the ultimate gift of God’s grace. Jesus came to give us life abundant, to fill us with hope that doesn’t fade, even when our circumstances might say otherwise. That’s the kind of hope we get to celebrate this Thanksgiving season!

Colossians 2:6-7 says, "So then, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, being rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, and overflowing with gratitude" (CSB). Gratitude isn’t just a response to what we have; it’s the overflow of a heart anchored in Christ.

So, as we lean into November, let’s allow gratitude to overflow in our lives. In the laughter and in the quiet, in the gathering and in the alone moments, may our hearts be filled with the thankfulness that flows from knowing Jesus.

Pray with me: "Lord, as we walk into this month of Thanksgiving, open our eyes to see Your goodness. Help us to count each blessing, no matter how small, and remember that every good and perfect gift comes from You. In our struggles, be our strength; in our joys, be our song. Fill our hearts with the kind of gratitude that overflows, bringing light and hope to everyone we meet. Thank You for Your love that never fails. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Happy November, dear friends. Let’s carry His hope, His joy, and His endless love, knowing that each day is a gift to be cherished.