I saw a Facebook post asking people to share their favorite Thanksgiving song. The first song that popped into my mind was “So Much to Thank Him For” which the Spencers and others have recorded. This is a song I intentionally play this time of year and it’s also a phrase I use a lot. No matter what is happening in your life, you still have a lot to be thankful for.

The holidays are difficult for so many. My sister-in-law lost her mom nine years ago this week. Someone else I know is in the process of saying goodbye to her father. Some of you will be spending the next couple of months without a loved one that would usually grace your table this week. You will have a hard time not thinking about your uncle’s bad jokes, your grandma’s fabulous cooking, your spouse’s smile, or whatever used to speak “Holiday season.” I believe memories are a gift from God, but they can be painful as well. I understand that. But I would like to encourage you to turn your mourning into praise. Thank God that you had that person as long as you did. If they were a Christian and you are as well, thank Him for the promise that you will one day be reunited. Thank Him for those with which you can still celebrate. I have known people who spend so much time pining for those they don’t have that the ones who are still around feel unimportant and unloved. Believe me, that is not a good feeling.

In the midst of whatever sadness and trials may surround you, I encourage you to strive to lay those things aside and thank the Lord for His many blessings. Thank Him for who He is: a God who is holy and yet merciful and loving, who cares about you more than you can fathom, who created you for a purpose, who still desires for you to walk with Him and commune with Him.

Among the many things I’m thankful for are you, those who take the time to read my devotional thoughts on Sundays when I get a chance to post something. I know these are not directly Southern Gospel related, but I’m thankful for the opportunity to share what God lays on my heart, and I appreciate the Music Scribe team for letting me be a part. Have a blessed Thanksgiving, Everyone!