Why Thanksgiving is My Favorite Holiday

Thanksgiving has always held a special place in my heart. It’s not just about gathering around the table with loved ones, enjoying delicious food, or even the traditions that come with the holiday. For me, Thanksgiving is a time to pause and reflect—a moment to recount the blessings and faithfulness of God throughout the year, even in the midst of trials.

This year, as I look back, I am overwhelmed by gratitude. There have been moments when life seemed uncertain—being diagnosed with issues beyond my control, walking by faith without a steady income, and navigating challenges that tested my endurance. Yet, through it all, God has been faithful. Each of these challenges has birthed a testimony, giving me countless reasons to tell the Lord, “Thank You!”

Reflecting on God’s Faithfulness

Scripture reminds us to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). This verse has been my anchor during the storms of life. Giving thanks doesn’t mean ignoring our struggles; it means recognizing that even in the hardest seasons, God is present, working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).

This year, I’ve learned to see His hand in everything—the unexpected blessings, the protection I didn’t even realize I needed, and the quiet moments where His peace surpassed all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

Gratitude in the Midst of Trials

Being diagnosed with health challenges and walking by faith without income are not situations anyone would choose. But these experiences have deepened my trust in God. He has shown me that He is Jehovah Jireh, my Provider (Genesis 22:14). Despite the uncertainty, I’ve never been without what I needed.

Like David declared in Psalm 37:25, “I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread.” This truth has been evident in my life. God has not only sustained me but has also given me strength and hope to keep pressing forward.

Testimonies of Thanksgiving

Each trial has birthed a testimony. When I felt weak, His strength carried me (2 Corinthians 12:9). When I faced closed doors, He opened new ones that I didn’t even know existed. When fear and doubt crept in, His Word reminded me to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5).

Even in the moments when my faith wavered, He remained faithful. This Thanksgiving, I can’t help but echo the words of Psalm 103:2, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”

A Heart of Thanksgiving

As I sit down this Thanksgiving, I’m reminded that gratitude isn’t confined to a single day. It’s a posture of the heart—a daily choice to focus on God’s goodness. Thanksgiving calls us to slow down and reflect on His blessings, big and small, and to declare like the psalmist, “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever!” (Psalm 107:1).

No matter what the year has held—victories, trials, or the mundane moments in between—God has been faithful. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday because it allows me to pause, reflect, and express my heartfelt gratitude for all that He has done.

As you celebrate Thanksgiving, I encourage you to take time to reflect on your own journey. Count your blessings, recall His faithfulness, and don’t hesitate to tell the Lord, “Thank You!”

Happy Thanksgiving!