Giving Thanks: Devotion Six

This week, in honor of Thanksgiving, our devotional theme is giving thanks. Stay tuned to the end of the post for more encouragement on building this important spiritual muscle! And remember, if you are enjoying this series, you can receive the whole collection of 31 illustrated and professionally edited devotions free to your inbox by following the prompts here!

And this post wouldn't be complete without a big thank you to author Laura Sassi for being my guest last week. Laura's post wasn't just featured here, but a version also appeared on the TODAY Show Parenting Team. Her appearance included a giveaway for her newest children's book, Love is Kind. Though many registered, I'm thrilled to pass along the name of the winner who took advantage of a bonus entry: C. Mallon! Watch for an email from me to claim your prize!

Day 31

“I will thank you forever, because of what you have done. In the presence of the faithful I will proclaim your name, for it is good.” Psalm 52:9

Staying mindful of our blessings is an important way we can bring calm to any chaos moment. How easy it is to focus on our problems rather than foster gratitude in the moment! James 1:17 says, “Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights.” God has blessed each of us richly. Acknowledging our blessings and thanking God for them has the power to hold our hearts in perfect peace, regardless of our circumstances. The goodness of God has inspired praise for centuries. When is the last time you recounted the ways God has been faithful in your life? Choose three things to be thankful for today and watch the fruit it transpires ... even better, do this with your children!

Further Reading: Psalm 107:1; Philippians 4:6–7

Want more encouragement on being thankful? Read my article for my writer's guild, "Lift Your Perspective, Change Your Life." Also, don't miss last year's endearing Thanksgiving post. Happy Thanksgiving!