Let Us Be Grateful

"I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.
I will be glad and rejoice in you;
I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High."
— Psalms 9:1-2 (NIV)

My Thanksgiving Story

Life is about adapting to change, and once I embraced this truth, I discovered the profound power of gratitude. As Thanksgiving approaches, I can’t help but reflect on past celebrations, particularly the one in 2016. That year, on November 15, our son was released from the NICU after three long months in the hospital. The gratitude I felt that day was indescribable.

Leaving your baby in the NICU for months is gut-wrenching, but bringing him home was a moment of pure grace. Born at just twenty-six and a half weeks, he was a medical miracle, a living testament to God’s power and mercy.

Day after day, I sat in the sterile NICU, draped in a yellow hospital gown to protect him from germs, holding his fragile, 3-pound body connected to wires and IVs. I prayed constantly—for his growth, his health, and our future as mother and son. But my prayers weren’t only requests; they were also filled with thanksgiving and praise. When words failed, I sang. "Amazing Grace" and "Blessed Assurance" became my lullabies, reminding me that God was the source of this miracle.

When we finally brought Grant home, life as a new mom brought its challenges: sleepless nights, new routines, and the ever-present fear of doing something wrong. To protect him during peak cold and flu season, we had to stay home for three months. Family gatherings, church services, and even a chance for Grant to play baby Jesus in the nativity were off the table.

Yet, every morning during my quiet time, God reminded me of the blessings in my life. Slowly, the small worries and disappointments faded, replaced by a deep sense of gratitude. When our small family gathered for our first Thanksgiving meal with Grant, joy overflowed. He was alive, healthy, and with us, and that was more than enough.

A Biblical Lesson in Gratitude

David, the author of Psalm 9, wrote these words during a tumultuous time in his life. His trials were a mix of his own mistakes and external hardships. Despite being chosen by God for great things, David was human—imperfect and flawed. His father-in-law sought to kill him out of jealousy. His own son attempted to overthrow him. He even orchestrated a man’s death out of selfish desire.

But through it all, David never stopped expressing gratitude. With his whole heart, he gave thanks to God, remembering the wonderful deeds that only his Creator could make possible. Even while hiding in caves to escape his son’s army, David remained steadfast in his faith, rejoicing in God’s goodness. He understood that gratitude and praise could lighten even the heaviest heart.

A Prayer for Thanksgiving

God, help me stay grateful this holiday season. Like David, teach me to rejoice in Your goodness throughout the day. When I feel overwhelmed, remind me to pause and reflect on all my blessings. Fill my heart with joy and gratitude as I prepare for Thanksgiving. Amen.

Tags: #Gratitude #Faith #Thanksgiving #SpiritualGrowth #ChristianLiving