Why Not To Be Thankful (And a book & gratitude journal giveaway!)

Of course, we should all be thankful – not just at Thanksgiving but every week of the year. But if we’re honest with ourselves, are we typically thankful or thank-full? Trust me, there is a huge difference.

Being thankful for the good things we feel God has given us is really just being glad we are benefiting from those good things and get to enjoy them. Being thankful when times are good and problems are minimal is pretty easy. In fact, admittedly, most of my life, although problems or adversities were always around of course, it usually felt pretty natural and easy to feel thankful and express thankfulness to God for my many blessings.

But over the past couple years, I’ve finally learned that being truly thankful requires looking beyond the blessings we can see and touch to focus on the holy One who blesses. 1 Chronicles 16:34 say Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Notice this command doesn’t say give thanks to the Lord, when times are good. But rather, give thanks because He is good. It doesn’t say give thanks because you love every aspect of your life, but because God loves you and His love endures forever. So often we forget that basic principle when life gets rough because during difficult times it can be hard to feel thankful, but much less thank-full. 

But God doesn’t want us to be thankful “when we feel like it.”  He doesn’t want us to feel blessed simply because we think we should be or only when life is skipping along perfectly, but rather because He is who He says He is – no matter what. We shouldn’t be thankful only when our prayers seem to be met, but also for what He might not have done yet while believing He heard those prayers and is carefully choosing the right way to answer. We shouldn’t be thankful when circumstances are good, but then feel forgotten by God when circumstances are difficult or even heartbreaking, as if suddenly God is no longer blessing us. Those are reasons why not to be thankful.

Thankfulness is one thing, but having a heart that is truly “thank-full” takes much more intentionality and has to be grounded in unwavering faith with no strings attached. Being full of thanks for God, is the one thing we can all be truly thank-full for.

God has taught me a lot of things the last few years about thankfulness. I’ve learned to be thankful for the things that truly matter, rather than the material things I used to feel were important. I’ve learned to feel immense gratitude for the people in my life and for having a Savior who will never leave me, even when others do. I’ve also learned to trust God like never before and see blessings in the most unusual of ways.  But one of the most important lessons I’ve learned in the midst of great loss, heartache, change and seemingly unanswered prayers, is that true thankfulness – the kind that delights God – bubbles up without effort from a heart full of gratitude for Christ Himself, not merely one full of appreciation for the physical blessings He has given. 

Maybe this Thanksgiving, especially if life is challenging or you’re still waiting for God to move in your life, bless a certain situation, restore a relationship or meet a need, you can embrace a more thank-full perspective by focusing on the Giver of all gifts, instead of the gifts themselves.

When we focus on who God is, instead of what He gives or does, it becomes easier and more natural to love the Blesser far more than the actual blessings.

As promised in today’s Proverbs 31 devotion,Don’t Let Details Distract You From Thankfulness, below are some tips for having a thank-full heart this holiday season, and details on how to enter to win a copy of Unsinkable Faith  plus a journal you can use for recording all the things and reasons you are grateful for.

  1. Try to pray without asking God for anything. Focus on gratitude and thanking Him for who He is first, then all the blessings you enjoy.
  2. Complaining sabotages thankfulness. Ask God to help you be more aware of when you are feeling tempted to complain, or help you catch yourself when you’re in the mode of complaining. Instead of complaining or thinking negative thoughts, immediately look for the silver lining in whatever you’re complaining about or try to find at least one positive thing you can thank God for instead.
  3. Make a list of all the people in your life who are truly grateful for. Tell them how you feel this week.
  4. Make a list of difficult circumstances you’ve faced this year (things that you typically would not be thankful for.) Now thank God for that circumstance and ask Him to help you see something good that came out of it. Commit to trusting in His ways even if you don’t understand them.
  5. Count your blessings (tangible and intangible) one by one. Write them down. Keep this list handy every day or stick it on your fridge so when frustrations and disappointments happen, you’ll be quickly reminded that despite it all, you still have much to be thankful for. Count your blessings, but focus on the Blesser most of all.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

So what are you most thankful for this week? Leave a comment on my blog to enter to win a copy of my book Unsinkable Faith and a gratitude journal!  (email replies will not qualify)

136 Comments

  1. Robin on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 6:34 am

    Thank you for the reminder!



    • Mick on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:25 am

      This is a very timely reminder!



    • Ruth Goodman on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 3:23 pm

      I am Thankful Traci Miles listens to God and gives me daily messages 🙂



    • Tina on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 10:01 am

      Thank you for the reminder to be thankful in all circumstances. Not just the good but difficult ones as well… instead of being caught up in self pity we always have something to be grateful for everyday…



    • Candace Hladik on Monday, November 27, 2017 at 7:31 am

      Yes, thank you reminding us to be thankful fo all things, good or bad.



  2. Cari Thornton on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 6:40 am

    This really challenges one to a look into our hearts and I love that. I truly believe actions and attitudes start there, and appreciate the perspective.



  3. Sarah Liddy on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 6:47 am

    I am continuing to learn to always be thankful, and in everything give thanks to God. Thank you Tracie Miles for the wonderful reminder



  4. Liz on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 6:51 am

    Most thankful for my family and new mercies every day when I haven’t been my best.



  5. Kim on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 6:59 am

    I am thankful that even when the Lord is rebuking and correcting me of sin in my life, I still feel His unending love. I know that He loves me unconditionally.



    • Shelli on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:37 am

      Amen Kim! I can definitely relate to your comment. I too am at a place where I can be thankful for God’s reprimanding. If not, I would continue in that sin & not grow because of it.
      Thank you Tracie for reminding me how important it is to be thank-full ????



  6. Karen on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:00 am

    I am so thankful to you for sharing this message. I had been wanting the holidays to be over with, because my family is so broken right now. But thanks to you reminding me of what it means to be thank-full I am so much more at peace with my circumstances. I was able after reading your message to truly thank God not for the brokenness but for Him being in this mess with us, fighting for us and always loving us.
    Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving.



  7. Cindy Britton on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:02 am

    I am thankful that I have a loving Lord who understands and loves me unconditionally, especially during the times when I act ungrateful.



  8. Julie Fox on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:17 am

    Thank you for this very important reminder of what true thankfulness and gratitude are and what God wants from us!



  9. Laura on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:20 am

    I am thankful for grace that is unending and abundant because I need it each and every moment.



  10. Joanna on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:30 am

    Thanks for the reminder, I needed it today (& every day!!)



  11. Sherena on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:35 am

    I am thankful for a job after being unemployed for two months. Thank you for this reminder.



  12. Lisa Achilles on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:35 am

    I am thankful for God’s grace which has truly saved a wretch like me. I’m thankful that I found Jesus years ago and now he leads me every day in the way I should go.



  13. Angie on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:40 am

    I am thankful that I can count on God to guide me through this hard time in my life. I am thankful that He is providing for me EVERY day through the last 3 months of being unemployed. Thank you for sharing this message because sometimes it is easy to focus on the problems, instead of focusing on Jesus.



  14. Joyce LeBlanc on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:46 am

    I am thankful for a God who NEVER changes and who has everything under control.



  15. grace on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:46 am

    I love how you used the Charlie Brown Thanksgiving story. I can certainly see myself in Patty. Praising God one minute and complaining the next. I am going to share this devotion with my family. I need to read this daily. ~Blessings



  16. Lori A. on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:57 am

    Thankful for friends that have become our family.



  17. Barb on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:07 am

    Beautifully stated. Thank you for you at this time and you inspiring message.



  18. SandyT on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:13 am

    Hope in Christ which never disappoints…Who never disappoints…the privilege and power of prayer…He knows my name, always hears me…I am not-never Alone. Sisters/brothers in Christ to journey with…



  19. Cindy Keebler on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:17 am

    I am so very thankful to God for His unfailing love toward me and that he always sees me thru even thru the bad times when I feel like I will not make it due to the pain and negative that I am going thru. He works in my mind and body to understand and gives me the strength to endure the difficult times and to wait patiently for Him to do the changing as it is always for my good. I am thankful for family and true friends He has blessed me with and learning thru the difficult times and trials in my life. Praise God in Jesus name for your love ????❤????????



  20. Jan on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:18 am

    What a wonderful blessing I received to read how to be thank-full with my heart and just go through the motions. God deserves so much more than I have been giving Him. Thank you for the helpful tips in being grateful. I don’t want to be a Peppermint Patty.



  21. Megan on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:18 am

    I’m most thankful that I’ve had so many good reminders and lessons on being thankful in the last month. I have learned so much and am truly starting to feel the transition from head to heart gratitude. I tend to have a negative outlook and this new attitude of gratitude has been changing my life!



  22. Nancy Stormer on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:19 am

    I definately needed to be reminded to be Thank full.



  23. Nicci Ramirez on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:24 am

    I am most thankful for friends who love me when I am most unloveable! Soooo very thankful!!!!



  24. Erin on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:26 am

    Such good reminders — especially about the complaining! Happy Thanksgiving!



  25. Donna on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:29 am

    I am thankful for family and friends and a God who never changes and loves us unconditionally.



  26. Ellen Coffin on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:32 am

    I have been so thank-ful for all that Good had been revealing to me from blog posts, e- mails and devotionals. It’s as if He is reminding me what true gratitude is. I am seeing the true definition of thanksgiving for the first time and loving every second of it! Thank you for your part in this learning process! HAPPY THANKSGIVING!



  27. Suzanne on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:33 am

    I’m so very thankful to God for all He has done in my life this year! I’m grateful that He is wish me through hard circumstances in my family and helping me to stay grounded in His word.



  28. Susanne on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:33 am

    God thank you for being God. Thank you for being the blesser, of all things, good and bad. You know the outcome and what is needed to grow spiritually along side of you



  29. Edie Elder Benlon on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:35 am

    Praise God from whom all blessings flow! Your email came at just the right time…of course, HE planned it that way! Thank you!



  30. K L Redfield on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:38 am

    I’m thankful that my husband’s ER visit this week for heart pain and pressure was not a heart attack!



  31. Leigh F. on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:42 am

    I am thankful for my family.



  32. Patricia f. Williams on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:43 am

    I’m thankful fo my new awesome life group and the friends-giving dinner my husband David n I feasted on last night. GOD is good and the giver of all things.



  33. Dana on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:43 am

    Thank you for the message today 🙂
    Happy Thanksgiving.



  34. Shiela on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:44 am

    Thank you for this timely reminder that living a thankful and grateful life is a daily choice I have to make. My husband and I have been waiting on the Lord to fulfill something He promised us a couple years ago and I get weary in the wait sometimes and let my guard down. Your reminder to focus on the One from whom all blessings flow is exactly what I needed to hear today. Thank you for your ministry. I would love to read your new book.



  35. Martha Parrish on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:46 am

    I am thankful for the Thanksgiving holiday, so my family has time to be together. I’m thankful for another Thanksgiving with my mother, who is 86 and has Alzheimer’s. I’m thankful for you and all from Proverbs 31 who have taught me how to study the Word of God, so that I can learn and grow in my faith; I can’t thank you enough! Happy Thanksgiving!



  36. Jill on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:46 am

    I am thankful that Jesus sought me and loves me despite my sinfulness. When I am thankful I feel the most joy and that incredible feeling comes from God alone. Thankful for you Tracie for reminding us to make this a regular part of daily life and that we need to encourage others to do the same. Just imagine what the world could be if there were more thankfulness.



  37. Debra Imboden on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:50 am

    Thanks so much for sharing I loved it very well said it helped me to realise I needed to be more THANKFUL



  38. Angie R on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:50 am

    I recently had a job a where my hours got cut dramatically and I ended up becoming behind in my bills. I prayed and prayed for a new, full-time, bill paying job and very recently that prayer was answered. My heart and career goal is to have a FT administrative position. This new job while it will pay the bills has many details that are less then ideal including not being my dream job. Your post was used by God just now to convict me that I’ve been thankful in my head, but not my heart. Thank you for posting on P31 so that I could read both posts and gain a reminder coupled with a refreshed perspective.



  39. Tracie on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:51 am

    I am thankful for the truths the Lord has recently revealed to me. He loves me more than I realize. He is also always good. I have had walls up that have not allowed the great depth of His love to truly reach my heart. I’m learning how to receive His true love and forgiveness while also learning how to let go of anger, bitterness, pride and most of all control. It’s hard and yes a lot of the time I don’t feel thankful in the midst of the many trials. But honestly it’s because I want control. He reminds me to “Be Still and Know that He is God”. Not me!! Thank you for the reminder to be thankful in all things at all times.



  40. Shannon on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:52 am

    Today I am thankful for devotions like this one that bring me back to my “starting place”. All too often I sit with my bible and my Jesus in the morning giving thanks for all that He’s done to ending my day by forgetting some of those reasons. It helps to bring myself back to my starting point every morning in hopes that as I go about my day and the craziness and brokeness of this world tries to interrupt my joy I will remember why I am living this life in the first place.

    I am thank-full for my life, all the beauty and brokeness of it. Each part of my life shapes me into the person I am, the person God is creating me to be!



  41. Heather on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:53 am

    I am thankful for good friends who are honest with me and i can be honest with them. For a husband who loves me and loves the LORD. For people like you Tracie, who are willing to be open and honest, which encourages me that I am not alone. For GOD who loves so much that he sent his son to die so we can be near to him.



  42. Tammy on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:00 am

    I am thankful for Gods strength and grace throughout this year….it’s been a rough one. I’ve had my down times when I allowed negative thoughts to take over…but God’s Word and promises brought me up each time Satan’s lies tried to take me down. I’m still waiting on some healing of my heart and body, for answers on financial survival, but I know God always came through in the past and will again. It’s not always easy to hand it all over, but this year has shone me that it is the only way to move forward. Be thankful for God’s trials as they will be for your good and growth in God.
    Happy Thanksgiving dear ones!



  43. Jill on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:01 am

    What a blessing! I do need to remember to be thankful for the Giver, not just the gifts. Thank you!



  44. Courtney on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:02 am

    I’m thankful for my husband’s job and all of the benefits that come along with it



  45. Lisa on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:04 am

    Thank you Tracie for your heart-felt devotion as it brings things into perspective. I really like how you used the Peppermint Patty analogy. I have to admit at times I catch myself being like that so I needed this today. I cannot thank God enough for all his goodness, blessings and even the bad situations too as those times have brought me closer to him. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. ~Lisa~



  46. Ella Messinger on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:04 am

    THANK YOU for your wonderful messages, and reminders to be thank full. I feel that lately I haven’t communicated with God as often as I should, and when I remember to talk with Him my conversation lack zeal and gratitude on my part. Today, I will talk to God, to praise Him and worship Him because He is good!

    Happy Thanksgiving.



  47. Wendy on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:10 am

    This year I am thankful that both my daughters will be home for Thanksgiving and that I am still cancer free!!



  48. Jeanine on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:10 am

    Great Reminder today!



  49. Robyn on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:12 am

    I’m thankful that God is a God of second chances. I’ve been through what you’ve been through, Tracie. (18 years ago) Keep looking up.



  50. Christina on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:13 am

    What am I most thankful for this year? Easy answer is my six month old granddaughter, Mackenzie, who lives in my home with my daughter so I get to see my granddaughter everyday. My granddaughter is a priceless treasure!!



  51. Maria Pimentel on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:14 am

    I had never heard of your blog but I’m thankful I found it. I only wish I would have found it one day sooner, before I made a terrible decisions to pick a fight with my significant other, 2 days before thanksgiving and now I feel as though I have ruined this thanksgiving. I fee as though God is displeased with, though I know he’s forgiving, it’s like I can’t forgive myself.



  52. Heidi on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:14 am

    Wonderful post, Traci. I really hope to focus more on gratitude through the next year. Would love to learn more in your book!



  53. Tiffany Riggs on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:24 am

    Today is the day I needed this! My life has been a whirlwind lately and it has had me so stressed out and my anxiety high! And the thought of the holidays approaching has just been my edge! In all of this I haven’t stopped to know what God has and is doing for me! I just married an amazing man who loves me beyond measure! I left an abusive marriage years ago and never felt worthy of anyone nor did I feel like I deserved it. I prayed to the Lord about the way I felt and that if it was his will I would love to fall in love with a man he would bring, not one I thought was right for me! I waited for awhile and right in a moment when I was about to give up God placed my sweet husband in my life! Four years later and a long spiritual journey together he vowed to love not only me but my two boys as well! Today I am thank-full!’



  54. Beth Thomas on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:29 am

    Such a good reminder of all we have to be thankful for. I often resemble Peppermint Patty, starting out with the good intentions, but then noticing all the things to grumble about! Thanks for the tips!



  55. Refocus-Reclaim on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:38 am

    So thankful for the blessings I do have – in spite of things being very unsettled and difficult financially and emotionally right now. God IS good!



  56. Jessica Tedder on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:38 am

    I am thankful for God’s grace. I am so thankful that no matter how many times I fail, he still loves me. His love is loyal and forever. I am thankful that I can be at peace in my current situation and hang on to the hope that God has plan for my life and it’s to prosper me and not to harm me.
    I am also thankful for the restoration of my relationship with my dad and I will get to enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner with him and his wife. I am also thankful that I get to share a thanksgiving spread with my mom and her husband and other family members. My family is healthy and able!



  57. Geralyn Miller on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:39 am

    I am most thankful for my life in Christ and God’s unconditional love that made it possible! But God has done so much more and given me even more…He has brought me through…..oh! What ALL my God has brought me through. I’ve got some stories to tell….of restoration, of healing….of hope. Oh! What an awesome God we serve!



  58. Heather Britain on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:42 am

    Amen Tracie❤️. This was spot on today, and I’m thankful for being wrapped in a warm blanket on a chilly morning while reading this devotional. I already have a copy of Unsinkable Faith, so I’m not commenting to win.



  59. Michele on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:43 am

    I am most grateful for Jesus walking beside me through a heart wrenching divorce and for the continually teaching me how to trust Him innall things.



  60. Renee Toubeaux on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:50 am

    I’m thankful for my singleness. I thought I’d never say it out loud, however. I’m learning that being in a relationship has to be with the right person and God has his ways. I see broken relationships all around and I’m greatful that I don’t have the stress of trying to make something work on my own strength. I thank God for the protection of the potential bad relationships I could have stayed in, but ended.



  61. Karen on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:54 am

    Thank you!!!



  62. Karen Campbell on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:55 am

    Thank you!!!



  63. Linda on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:55 am

    Thanks for the reminder. I’m learning to be thankful in all things even though I recently loss my husband of 28 years and it seems family and friends have abandoned me. God is still worthy of my praise and thanksgiving. Just because of who He is!



  64. Michelle Kosa on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:01 am

    This was really what I needed to hear today. Thank you!



  65. Carolyn R on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:04 am

    Thank you, Tracie. I’m a type A person and want things to be just so. God has been so patient and forgiving to put up with the many times I forget to be thankful and instead grumble or doubt. I always have Him to be thankful for (as you said, that never changes) and my sweet family.



    • Carolyn R on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:05 am

      Oh and God bless you and yours. Happy Thanksgiving!



  66. Tammy on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:04 am

    I am thankful for blog posts like that remind me to be thankful because God is good even if my circumstances aren’t. Happy Thanksgiving!



  67. Martha Swenson on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:07 am

    Thank YOU for this message! I catch myself complaining about my life and living conditions, then have to STOP & realize: I have a house (even if it is crowded), and food, and electricity, and drinkable water…the list goes on & on!! GOD provides all I need always!! GOD BLESS you for your ministry!!



  68. Leslie M. on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:18 am

    I am thankful that in those hard times He is with us even when we don’t understand a thing going on…He is there and we can lean on Him.



  69. Zoinyer McAlister on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:28 am

    I am thankful for holy teinity healthcare and the womderful staff who have come to our home to help mom with her health, memory and just to talk. I wasnt sure what else to do and God, Almighty God stepped in amd made the path straight. Thank you God for my intercessors. There are many. I too love peanuts and have made it a tradition with my girls and grandchildren. Im thankful for you Ms. Tracie for reminging us about when to be Thankful im good times amd bad times. To God be the Glory!
    Happy Thanksgiving!!!



  70. Angie on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:30 am

    Thank you, Tracie, that with all YOU have had to endure, you can share. Our Pastor just spoke about how when we are in our deepest valleys is when we see God’s hand on our life, more than ever. I, too, am still in a valley, but drawing closer to Him, thru it all! Sure there have been tears & wonder where He is….calling out, Lord, how long, how long, do I have to wait. It’s all in HIS timing & not in ‘my’ timing! Looking forward to being on the mountain top, one day, knowing all along that He has never left me nor stopped loving me. John 4:19 “We love, because He first loved us”, it’s not the other way around. Coming out of the valley helps us to help others – we’ve been there! Being thankful in ALL things gives me a heart of gratitude that pushes away despair – leading the way to a life of gratefulness that only God can provide!



  71. Heather L. Mattern on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:30 am

    Tracie, thank you for this reminder to always be grateful for the constant love and relationship with the Giver Himself and not to be so focused on the gifts or current circumstances. Have a blessed Thanksgiving.



  72. Megan L. on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:32 am

    Thank you for this reminder. It’s so appropriate as we get ready to celebrate Thanksgiving. God is good all the time.



  73. Millie on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:32 am

    You are so right. Our focus needs to shift away from our circumstance to who He is. I have so much to be thankful for from a tangible perspective but also, and more importantly, from a spiritual perspective. God loves me so much he sent his son to die for me on the cross.



  74. Rachel Collier on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:33 am

    So so thankful for Jesus!!! So grateful for ALL He is…..for giving us His Spirit….to dwell with in us ♥️ Amazing!
    Very grateful for your encouragement and ways to focus on Him {instead of just His gifts}. Needed ~ Thank you so much!



  75. Mary on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 10:47 am

    I really enjoyed this devotional and the reminder to be thankful always! I am thankful for many things, but most of all for my family!



  76. Gina on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 11:05 am

    Thank you Lord for speaking through Tracy when I needed to hear from you the most. The holidays are especially hard for me to be thank-full. Even though Christmas is still a month away, I have already started to stress the family get together. I need to stay positive and remember that it’s not about me or the family, but all about God and Jesus. No matter what happens, God will ALWAYS be there for me and will walk me through the toughest of times. Praise you Lord!



  77. Robin on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 11:35 am

    I am thankful for my family and for God’s grace and love.



  78. Linda Sears on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 11:36 am

    I am so thankful that God is a faithful God. Even when there were times when I was not faithful, He has always been faithful to me, and for that, I am so very thankful and grateful. Blessings!



  79. Lynda on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 11:50 am

    I am thankful for my family and the ability to celebrate with them. And I am thankful for grace.



  80. Maya on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 11:57 am

    “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Yes!
    To be grounded in unwavering faith with no strings attached; to be full of thanks and love for God and His loving Son. Yes! At this time in my life I am especially thankful for my wonderful daughter who is 26. She has been a blessing to me. I am thankful for all my family and relations. Thank You, thank You, thank You.



  81. Susan on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 12:07 pm

    Thank you for this powerful reminder and tips! Whenever there is strife in my life I thank our Holy Father for instructing and reminding me that I need to totally depend on Him to get me through. Though the instruction may be painful, it always brings me spiritually closer to our Lord and Savior.



  82. Janet Outen on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 12:10 pm

    Thankful for my family and friends and my pets as well and thankful most of for God and Jesus



  83. Karen C. on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 12:28 pm

    Thank you for this blog! I’m so thankful for my salvation that Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior gave His life for. I try to be thankful for all things big and small, and know that God is in control and has me where He want me.

    Happy Thanksgiving!



  84. Angela P on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 12:28 pm

    I’m thankful that God is with me at all times — especially making me aware of His presence during hard times, and He sends me people to minister to me, and comfort me, especially during this season!



  85. Angela Parker on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 12:29 pm

    I’m thankful that God is with me at all times — especially making me aware of His presence during hard times, and He sends me people to minister to me, and comfort me, especially during this season!



  86. Debbie Chrisman on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 12:46 pm

    Wow! This is so timely. The last 3 weeks have been very devastating to our Family, we suddenly lost My Sister’s husband to Leukemia that we didn’t know he had. A couple days later we lost my Son’s Best Friend. Seriously through all this, it’s been a struggle to be Thankful, but I am Thankful that My Brother in Law and Friend did not suffer, and even more Grateful that this Thanksgiving they are “Dancing with the Stars!”



  87. Sheryl Gray on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 1:06 pm

    Thank you for the reminder which really helps me a lot. No matter what circumstances I go through, I knew in my heart that God never leave me. I’m thankful that God has walk with me through every step of the way and help me become a strong woman of God. It has not been easy but His strength has got me going and His love help me overcome. I’m thankful for Jesus who saved my soul and is the Lord of my life. Happy Thanksgiving to you and God bless you all!



  88. Beth Ann Roberts on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 1:25 pm

    Just what I needed to be reminded of this week. I have been exploring what it means to give a sacrifice of praise. Sometimes it’s not easy but we need to have thankful hearts even in hard times.



  89. Kathyrn on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 2:23 pm

    I am thankful for your books. I needed these messages at this time in my life.
    I am thankful for grace and patience to stop and listen to God speaking to me.
    You have no idea how much I appreciate your wisdom.
    May the world be changed one prayer at a time.
    God Bless.



  90. Martha T. on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 2:51 pm

    I am thankful for family and friends.



  91. Carol on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 3:01 pm

    I’m thankful that Jesus LOVES me. I’ve asked God to help me understand this and He IS!



  92. Ann on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 3:24 pm

    I am thankful for so much! One thing is having custody of my grandson, even though it’s hard I love being able to take care of him, love him & teach him about Jesus!



  93. Kathy on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 3:39 pm

    I am thankful for God’s life-giving supply in my spirit. When I focus on the Lord’s mercy, love and protection, I cannot help but be joyful and see life in a different manner. I have a lovely home, and a loving husband making me grateful for their blessing the Lord has extended. I gladly take up my cross and seek Him in all the painful and inconvenient situations. He is daily transforming me within to be replaced by the person of Christ. What a wonderful God we have!



  94. Jessica on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 3:50 pm

    I am thankful for my beautiful children and a husband who works hard on himself and desires to please God. I am so very thankful for forgiveness and new chances. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.



  95. Patty Schultz on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 3:57 pm

    It will be 5 years next year that changed me. I’m trying to be a thankful person from this experience, and sometimes I get so overwhelmed with hurt and frustration that it overwhelms me. So I have to learn to be grateful for the new beginnings that God offers us each morning. I’m grateful for those moments when my heart feels filled with hope, but mostly grateful for my family who prays for my healing and restoration of my legs. Thank you Tracie for blessing others with your words, and this lovely giveaway. I think this would be a great book to have. Happy Thanksgiving.



  96. Alexandra on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 4:13 pm

    I am thankful for the reminder. I put too much emphasis on what Thanksgiving should look like, that I forget what it means.



  97. Christel on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 4:16 pm

    God is SO faithful…through good times and rough times! I’ve learned so much about His faithfulness the past couple years. And I’ve learned to cling to Jesus! It hurt but I’d do it all over again to learn this of my Savior! I am so blessed and I try to remember that at all times, no matter the circumstances! Thank you for this reminder! God is good…all the time!



  98. Brenda on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 5:17 pm

    This week, I am most thankful that my younger son and I both had the whole week off.



  99. Patti P on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 5:44 pm

    I am most thankful for my family and the amazing church family we have become a part of.



  100. Lynn on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 6:11 pm

    I am thankful for good health. I’m sick right now and it really makes me appreciate the fact that usually I am pretty healthy. I am also thankful for my home, and that the winds that toppled a tree in my yard two weeks ago did not also damage the house. There is so much to be thankful for, by mostly for God and who he is, and his grace towards us and who we are.



  101. Becky meyer on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:20 pm

    I love everything about this blog post. Thankful for these uplifting words today.



  102. Melissa on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 7:53 pm

    Im thankful for my life in Christ, without it i would be still stuck in an endless cycle of worldly nothingness. I am not yet where i want to be, but I’m far from where i ised to be. Because of His great love and provision for me.



  103. Beverly Aiwohi on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 8:54 pm

    What a great reminder. In ALL things give thanks.



  104. Kellie Metzker on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:19 pm

    I am so grateful God has kept us all healthy this year. It has been a year since my husbands open heart surgery, since I was let go from my job and from when I had a pretty good fall, with some substantial injuries.
    We are so blessed to be here, happy, healthy and full of love for each other!!



  105. Julie on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 9:23 pm

    I am thankful for prayers answered and happy, healthy, growing grandsons!



  106. Kimberly Workman on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 11:01 pm

    I’m thankful that my Daddy made it through chemo and we’re having the first extended family Thanksgiving in probably ten years.



  107. Racquel Peterson on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 12:12 am

    I’m thankful for the generous hearts of others who are so willing to help us financially this Christmas.



  108. Lisa Richardson on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 12:12 am

    This week, I am thankful for my husband. I love this reminder to be thankful at all times.. even when life is hard. Thank you.



  109. PJ on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 1:49 am

    There’s a lot going on that could be so discouraging. Life is tough – tangible and intangible needs, but I’m so grateful for what I do have! And I’m most thankful that I know the Blesser and thankful that He knows me! That right there, is more than enough to remember to “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!” Thank you Tracie for this timely reminder!



  110. Melissa on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 2:14 am

    I am thankful that God finds so many ways to show me that he loves me – from the beautiful words of devotionals like this that help me to focus on him and what is really important to the joy my dog expresses whenever I come home, from the beauty of the natural world to the smile from a friend or stranger just when I need it most. With a heart focused on him, it is so much easier to see and appreciate the little things he constantly does.



  111. Julie Jarvi on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 3:22 am

    I am thankful for waking each day to serve my Lord!



  112. Connie on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 6:46 am

    Today I am so thankful that I have family and extended family that will be filling our home in a few hours. We will eat, laugh, talk, share, eat some more, but most of all we will just enjoy each other’s company! As our parents age and our children move out of the house, these times together have become more and more precious to us!



  113. Elaine on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 7:26 am

    I am Thankful for my husband, my children and everything the Lord has provided for our family and friends



  114. Rachelle Craig on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 9:02 am

    Thank you for this encouragement, Tracie! I love the tips for having a thank-full heart, and plan to use those tips! It becomes so easy to get wrapped up in our own disappointments in life and lose focus on the One who provides everything we need. I hope you and your family have a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving!



  115. Joy R. on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 9:31 am

    I am most thankful for Jesus. I have been a widow for over 4 years now and am raising a teenager. I can honestly say that Jesus has stepped in to be my husband just like the scripture states. My heart overflows with gratitude to Him for all that He has done for me, especially this year. After working part time for several years, He blessed me with a full time position this year!!! Praise God!



  116. Karolina on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 10:29 am

    I really like how you summed it up, “Being full of thanks for God, is the one thing we can all be truly thank-full for.” At least for me it is true I think- I don’t spend enough time meditating on the fact that God chose to be a good Daddy for us, full of love, grace, protection, and mercy. He could’ve chosen to be all other things- but He chose to love us unconditionally despite our ”misbehaviours”. That is definitely a great reason to be thank-full for regularly ! 🙂



  117. Jean A on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 10:59 am

    I am so grateful that I opened my heart up to God and allowed him back into my life. I blamed God for my brother’s murder 23 years ago, it took some years but I eventually realized that God didn’t make the person do it, Satan did. Allowing God back into my life has allowed me to heal. The loss of my brother still hurts, especially around the holidays, but I am now able to celebrate my brother’s life instead of focussing on his death.

    I am also very grateful for my family and friends. My life would be very dull without them.



  118. Patricia Jaracz on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 12:17 pm

    I’m grateful for many things!



  119. Laura on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 1:13 pm

    I am in the situation with the crying 1 year old and the two week old baby who just pooped and wants to be fed as the clock strikes 12 for Thanksgiving dinner. So here I sit I a room alone breastfeeding while my family indulges. But, my heart is grateful to hear the voices of those I love coming together over a meal, 4 generations. Biological and in laws. All brought together in thankfulness.



  120. Susan Daugherty on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 3:33 pm

    I’m thankful for a God who is so much bigger than my understanding of him! Thank you for encouragement to be thank-full.



  121. Nancy on Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 7:25 pm

    Tough year for me health wise. Sadness took over my life, coupled with physical issues. I have not been “thank-ful”. Reading above comments were very helpful to me. Thanksgiving has taken on a new meaning.



  122. Lisa on Friday, November 24, 2017 at 5:53 am

    I have this verse hanging in my kitchen, as a reminder to give thanks-no matter what. Unfortunately, I have not been taking the message to heart lately. I would love to have a copy of this book to help me readjust my mindset and to help me remember how much I have to be thankful for!



  123. Linda Hoesterman on Friday, November 24, 2017 at 6:01 pm

    I am thankful for God’s love, mercy, blessings, grace and endless love. That He would lay down His live to save a wretch like me.



  124. Marie on Saturday, November 25, 2017 at 6:30 am

    I am thankful for the time looking at myself that had occurred during my marriage separation. It is causing me to make good changes in my life. One of greatest importance is my relationship with God.



  125. Robin in NC on Saturday, November 25, 2017 at 8:14 am

    Enjoying time spent with family & friends!



  126. Libby P. on Sunday, November 26, 2017 at 7:51 am

    I am thankful today for this reminder. I just had a moment yesterday where I was un-thankful and could only focus on complaining about the situation. This post reminded me to be thankful at all times and ask Got to remind me when I am not.



  127. Linda C on Monday, November 27, 2017 at 5:52 am

    I know I am reading this late, but it has been a real blessing. I have been struggling these past few days with being burdened by circumstances and not being very thankful. Today I am truly thankful for you and this post. I NEEDED this reminder to help get my head straight as I head into another busy week. Thank you again for this post and I pray you had a blessed Thanksgiving!



  128. Shelia on Monday, November 27, 2017 at 3:34 pm

    Thanks for the reminder. I am remembering the family fruitfulness of the Thanksgiving weekend and looking past current challenges to true thank-full-ness.
    Bless you, Tracie



  129. Jessica Orika on Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at 5:20 am

    Thank you so much for the reminder. I was greatly blessed by this piece and I now know clearly what it means to be thankful. Thank you, Lord, for just loving me and for who you are.

    God bless you, Tracie.



  130. Meaghan on Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at 7:07 am

    I think being thankful is a great subject! It determines your attitude for the day and you can overcome many obstacles by just saying a prayer of thanks to God. That right there calms me down when I am irritated. I think of five blessings and take a deep breath and it helps me so much! Thanks for the reminder!



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Tracie Miles is a bestselling author and the Director of COMPEL Training with Proverbs 31 Ministries.  She helps women grow stronger in their faith, pursue the life of purpose God designed them for and live a life of peace, joy and happiness despite their circumstances.

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