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Embracing the Season of Thanks

November 24, 2025 · by LaDonna Harrell

There’s a certain rhythm that comes with the changing seasons, and when the air turns crisp and the leaves turn golden, our hearts begin to lean into something deeper. Gratitude. It’s not just a word we hear around the Thanksgiving table — it’s a posture of the soul. For Christian women, this season isn’t only about pumpkin pies, festive centerpieces, and gathering around a full table. It’s about pausing in the middle of a fast-paced world to breathe in the goodness of God and to recognize the blessings that might otherwise go unnoticed.

There’s something incredibly sacred about the quiet of fall mornings — the sun rising slowly, a cup of coffee warming your hands, the hum of a peaceful house not quite awake yet. These moments are reminders that even in the simplest things, God is present. Gratitude begins right there. Not in the grand gestures, but in the stillness of everyday grace. The hugs from your children, the sound of laughter at dinner, the way your husband squeezes your hand when you’re walking through the grocery store. These are the treasures that can’t be bought, only received with a thankful heart.

Scripture tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” It’s easy to give thanks when everything is going well — when the bills are paid, everyone is healthy, and the holiday table is full. But real gratitude digs deeper. It roots itself in faith, even when life is uncertain. It whispers, “God is still good,” even when the circumstances are not. That kind of gratitude doesn’t come from Pinterest-perfect homes or carefully planned menus. It comes from knowing that every good and perfect gift is from above (James 1:17), and that His grace truly is sufficient.

As women who tend our homes and nurture our families, we hold a special opportunity this time of year. We are the ones lighting the candles, planning the meals, fluffing the pillows, and setting the tone for our households. But more than any of that, we are the ones who get to anchor our homes in the peace and presence of Christ. Our kids might not remember whether the napkins matched or the pie crust was homemade, but they will remember how they felt — safe, loved, welcomed, and at ease. That’s the true ministry of hospitality, and it begins with a heart full of thanks.

Thanksgiving is more than a holiday — it’s a chance to draw close to the people we love and to the God who made us family. Sitting around the table, sharing stories, passing food, and bowing our heads in prayer is not just tradition — it’s worship. It’s a declaration that everything we have, every bite we eat, every laugh we share is a gift from a faithful Father. And when we create space for that kind of togetherness, heaven touches earth in the most beautiful way.

One of the sweetest blessings of this season is the time we get to spend together. Whether it’s baking with your children in a flour-dusted kitchen or cuddling on the couch watching a family movie, these moments build more than memories — they build legacy. Time spent together is never wasted. In fact, it’s in those very moments where hearts are softened, conversations open up, and love takes root. When your children see you practicing gratitude, when they hear your prayers of thanksgiving and feel your joy in the small things, they’re learning what it means to walk with Jesus. You’re not just raising a family — you’re discipling hearts.

There’s joy in the giving, too. Giving of ourselves. Giving a kind word, a warm smile, a plate of cookies to a neighbor who might be lonely this season. Gratitude often spills over into generosity. It moves us from counting our blessings to becoming one for someone else. That’s the heart of Christ. And as His daughters, we carry that light into every room we enter.

So, as the leaves fall and the days grow shorter, let this be your reminder: you are doing holy work. Whether you’re folding laundry, planning meals, or simply sitting with someone who needs a listening ear — your presence matters. Your joy matters. And your gratitude is changing the atmosphere of your home.

May this season draw you close to the ones you love and even closer to the One who gives every good thing. May your table be full, your heart be fuller, and your soul be wrapped in the peace of knowing that you are right where God wants you — giving thanks in the middle of it all.

Happy Thanksgiving, sweet sister. You are loved, you are seen, and you are held — every single day.

LaDonna Harrell

About LaDonna Harrell

LaDonna Harrell lives in Magnolia, AR with her amazing husband and wonderful son. She loves to travel around the Unites States with her family, reading, being a mom and wife, playing the piano, decorating, and studying God's Word. Being a southerner, LaDonna's love for hospitality, decorating and southern charm shines through. She enjoys hosting Women's Bible Study luncheon's in her home. She and her husband work in many areas of their church, including teaching a Biblical Finance Class, and enjoy being "hands-on" in the ministry and Kingdom of God. She is the owner of the blog Faith Family and Miracles, where she provides resources and speaks to woman about real life issues of being a Godly mom and wife. Follow LaDonna on Facebook at facebook.com/faithfamilyandmiracles

Website: www.faithfamilyandmiracles.com

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