Thanksgiving Inspiration
In recent weeks, our family has been blessed and inspired by A Collection of Thanksgiving Blessings: Inspiration and Encouragement For A Season of Gratitude.
I hope you're encouraged by a few prompts from the section entitled:
"Finding The Silver Lining"
When My Faith Is Challenged
Father, thank You for the truth of Your Word and for always providing me with a ready answer when I am questioned by those who haven’t yet experienced the saving grace of Your Son. Thank You for this opportunity to be a light to the world—to share Your glorious promises with others and bring them closer to an understanding of Your unconditional love.
When My Heart Is Broken
Lord, You are the healer of all things broken and despairing. Thank You for this opportunity to put things into perspective and grow in my relationship with You. I don’t have much to offer, but I know that in Your loving embrace my tattered spirit will become new again.
Losing Something of Sentimental Value
Father, losing something precious has taught me that things are just things—that what is most important in life is cherishing my relationship with You above all else. I may have lost part of a special memory today, but I know I can never lose You. Thank You for being with me forever and always.
Unanswered Prayers
It amazes me, Father, how You know my needs so intimately. Thank You for listening to all my prayers—even the unreasonable ones—and providing me with comfort and direction. Your ways are mysterious, but I’m grateful that You always have the big picture in mind.
When My Plans Fall Through
Lord, let this disappointment be a reminder that nothing in life is set in stone—except You. Thank You for being there to uplift and comfort me when all else is lost.
Everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving. 1 TIMOTHY 4:4 NIV
When I’ve Been Offended
Jesus, my heart hurts, but I thank You for this pain because it means I am alive and real. I know that I will grow through this adversity. Help me to forgive as You have forgiven me.
Bad News
Lord, I know this news was not a surprise to You, but it has caught me off guard. Thank You for the promise that You can bring good out of every situation—even the ones that seem very bad to me. Help me trust You to see me through.
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Compiled By Barbour Staff, A Collection of Thanksgiving Blessings: Inspiration and Encouragement for a Season of Gratitude (Uhrichsville, OH: Barbour Books, 2012).