Thankful

November 22nd, 2025

1 Thessalonians 5:12-22.

The American observation of Thanksgiving is just a few short days away. Many are preparing to celebrate with family and friends. Grocery stores will be busy as shoppers select ingredients for traditional foods. Transportation hubs will swell with travelers moving from one locale to another. Holiday cheer is in the air.

For many among us, this season is challenging. Families may be distant due to jobs, restrictions on travel, or even past hurts. Individuals may not have a family or friend group to gather with to celebrate. Some may not have the financial ability to travel or purchase additional food items. Circumstances are different for all of us.

Despite the circumstances we find ourselves in (whether we are talking about a holiday or day-to-day living), God calls us to give thanks in all circumstances. Easier said than done, right? The author of Thessalonians points out that we are called to treat each other (and ourselves) with love. Our whole beings are to be drenched in God’s love until it is leaking out of who we are. We are commanded to “not quench the Spirit” (v. 19). This is how we are able to “give thanks in all circumstances”; we are infused, transformed by God’s love.

Author: Stefanie Hendrickson