It’s November and the holidays are fast approaching. Soon our schedules will be flooded with family gatherings, pie-making, gift buying, parties, and all of the festivities that this season can bring. Exciting? Hopefully yes! But if you’re like me, being on the brink of a “busy” season can also stir up some negative emotions—such as fear, worry, and stress. What is it about the holiday season that can cause such an emotional response? For me, it boils down to the worldly (and admittedly – impossible!) expectations I place on myself. Holidays are supposed to be perfect, right?

NO WAY!

Instead of letting November be a stressor, let’s actively take time to draw into a season of gratitude. Instead of worrying about what all that needs to get done, thank God for all He had done for us.

I challenge you and your families to do things that would put the holiday in perspective. Take time to read God’s Word. Make a list of the blessings He’s provided. And if you want to really get creative, make one of these Thankful trees:

(Image courtesy of Simply Vintage Girl)

(Image courtesy of Craftionary)

No matter how we do it, the most important thing is to take time to read God’s Word and thank Him specifically for all the ways He has given to us. My prayer is that God would richly bless your family and cultivate in all of us a heart of gratitude.

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:17