Inquisitive Adventures

A practice of pausing, noticing, and giving thanks.

Lately, I have been contemplating the holidays. This time of year can be complicated. It is easy to get caught up in the rush to accomplish everything and end up stressed. Before we realize what is happening, we can forget to care for ourselves and lose sight of the purpose of this season.

Today is Thanksgiving—a reminder to pause, slow down, and refocus on the blessings God has given us. There is power in gratitude. In the Christian life, gratitude can be an easily forgotten practice. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, Scripture tells us:

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Whether it’s the distraction of rushing through life, stress, or whatever we are facing, our human nature is to focus on the complex and negative aspects of our lives and forget the good. If we allow it, we can become deceived and forget the good in our lives, even the small, seemingly insignificant joys. 

Gratitude reminds us that what we have is not ours but a blessing from our Creator. Thanksgiving is not just a time for traditions, family, and food. It is an invitation to praise God for all that he has blessed us with and to remember that there is a light to be thankful for even in the darkest of circumstances. 

My challenge to myself and to others is to find a quiet space in the midst of the holidays and practice gratitude. Take a moment. Sit quietly. Read a Scripture passage on gratitude. Write a list of what you are thankful for, praise God for His goodness, and breathe in His presence as you worship Him in thankfulness. Savor the moment. 

I created a little gratitude list with verses to guide your quiet moments. It’s available at the end of this post for anyone who subscribes.

Happy Thanksgiving!