“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” — Psalm 107:1 (NIV)
Thanksgiving is a time when we gather, share good food, and enjoy being around family and friends. It’s easy to think of gratitude in terms of these moments, yet true thankfulness goes deeper. It’s not just about the big gatherings or special days; it’s about realizing how much God has blessed us through the people around us every day. When we think about those closest to us—our family and friends—we should remember that God placed them in our lives for a purpose. He knows exactly what we need, and he often meets those needs through the people who love us.
Sometimes, though, family and friendships aren’t always easy. We may have disagreements or misunderstandings, or there might be times when we feel distant or hurt. But even in those moments, God calls us to have a grateful heart. We can be thankful for the lessons we learn from each other and for the ways God grows us through both the good and challenging times. Through all of it, God’s love never changes. He stands by us, encouraging us to appreciate the gifts of love, support, and companionship.
This Thanksgiving season, take a moment to look around and think about the people God has placed in your life. It’s easy to say we’re thankful, but let’s make sure we show it, too. We can encourage each other, forgive each other, and let each other know how much we care. That’s what makes our gratitude real, and it’s one of the best ways to reflect God’s love.
God’s goodness is a steady, unchanging foundation in our lives, and the people around us are part of that gift. Let’s not just be thankful today, but every day, knowing that each person in our lives is a reminder of His love.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the family and friends you’ve placed in my life. Help me to see them as blessings and to be truly thankful. Show me how to love and encourage them as you love me. Help me remember your love that is always there, even when things aren’t perfect. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
