November 2026
November is a month when we begin thinking about Thanksgiving; family gatherings, good food, and all the things for which we are grateful. Of course, Thanksgiving also reminds us that we have much to be thankful for—including stretchy pants!
But gratitude is about much more than turkey, pumpkin pie, and gathering around the table. It is about recognizing God’s goodness, even when life doesn’t go exactly as planned.
The apostle Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
I know we’ve seen/read/memorized this Scripture before. But that doesn’t mean we “know” it, or put it into practice.
Paul says to give thanks in all circumstances, not necessarily for all circumstances. We may not be thankful for every difficulty we face, but we can always look for signs of God’s presence, strength, and faithfulness along the way.
Sometimes our blessings are obvious: family, friends, good health, and a warm home. Other times, they are found in quieter places—a kind word, a helping hand, a telephone call from someone who cares, or the simple reassurance that we do not walk through life alone.
Perhaps this November we could try something different. Instead of counting our blessings only on Thanksgiving Day, let’s make gratitude a daily habit. Before we go to sleep, name three things for which we are thankful. They don’t have to be extraordinary. In fact, the ordinary blessings are often the ones we overlook.
As we enter this season of thanksgiving, may we be people who notice God’s goodness, appreciate one another, and share our blessings freely.
After all, we don’t have to wait until Thanksgiving to give thanks. And we certainly don’t have to wait until the turkey is cooked!
May your November be filled with grateful hearts, generous spirits, and the peace that comes from knowing God’s love never runs out.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Glen