Giving Thanks For The Things That Matter

I have a really busy day today. Do you? I thought so! Well, it’s time for a time-out. In the rush of our daily deadlines, chores, appointments (and let’s be real—sometimes even chaos), Thanksgiving offers us a beautiful opportunity to pause. Between today’s busy-ness and the season of seemingly nonstop holiday activities that’s about to begin, we’re given a chance to sit back, reflect and savor the good. To appreciate our many blessings.

Yes, you may be going through some difficult things right now. Giving thanks might be the last thing you feel like doing. But Scripture tells us that we don’t have to be thankful for all things, but in all things (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Because even though life has seasons of storms and stress, there is always—always—something to be thankful for. It’s what we choose to focus on that makes all the difference.

So our staff team wanted to share some of our gratitude with you. And as you read what each person has decided to share, see if you notice a few common themes—I did!

Here are the things we are particularly grateful for this year:

Eileen—Partner Manager & Executive Assistant

I am thankful to see my two teenagers handling increased responsibility well and being so fun to be around. I am joyously seeing fruit from the seeds sown in their early years.

Katie—Senior Writer and Editor

I’m deeply grateful that our son is thriving in college and making his way into adulthood. What a wonder it is to watch children grow into their personalities and gifts and interests! I’m thankful for the work I get to do that helps families draw closer to Jesus. And I’m oh, so thankful for my family—as lovely and challenging and complicated and as funny as we are. God put us together and I’m glad for it.

Charlyn—Staff & Operations Director

I am grateful for my family and for God’s incredible blessings over us. I am thankful that God has allowed me to be a part of such an incredible relationship-changing ministry and for the amazing friends that I get to work with in this journey. And most of all, I am thankful for Jesus and His daily guidance and shepherding each and every day.

Debbie—Digital Marketing & Content Manager

Life is full of unexpected turns. I’m grateful that I got to reconnect with a dear friend just before her passing in September. She was a great influence and encouragement in my life, teaching me so much over the last decade of our friendship. I hope to continue her legacy of faith, mentorship, and intentionality.

Laura—Church Partner Manager

I think my one word of gratitude would be “community”. Drue (my husband) and I have been part of starting a new church in our area. The launch team that God has raised up has been the sweetest gift. In addition, our neighborhood/small town community has been a blessing—often rallying to support one another, our kids, schools, etc. Our “work community” has also been a fun, encouraging group of women to be part of—definitely a highlight from the past year.

Suzanne—Digital Content Associate 

This year I am especially thankful for the return of things that bring me joy like travel and live music.

Nicole—Speaking Agent

I’m so very grateful for God’s redemptive plan for my life! How He writes the story of my life—for my good and for His glory. AND for meeting Shaunti and her team this year! Reading her books, applying the principles is changing me, my marriage, and my family!

Beth—Writer

As the years go by, I appreciate more and more the simple pleasures: my morning cup of coffee, a good book, enjoying God’s creation on a walk or run, laughter with friends & family, day-to-day life in our charming small town.

Shaunti

I am so very, very thankful for this amazing team. And for family and friends who have been encouragers and comforters during this very challenging year. And for the opportunity to set my hand to do what God has brought my way, in this ministry. Especially for all of YOU who share the impact we have had in your lives and relationships, and who turn around and care for others. That’s the way the Body of Christ is supposed to work and I’m so grateful to be a part of it.

So, did you notice a few common threads among the things we’re thankful for? What seems to permeate our list are the themes of relationships and joy. The things we’re thankful for aren’t things—they’re people and experiences. How appropriate that as we enter the season of gift giving, we intentionally put our focus on the “things” that really matter.

We wish you an opportunity to pause, and in that pause to experience gratitude—for whatever your list includes this year—and to savor the people and experiences that enrich your life. Know that we are thankful for you and we are thankful with you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

If you are interested in having Shaunti bring research-based strategies, practical wisdom and biblical principles to your next event, please contact Nicole Owens at [email protected].

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