Welcome to November! November is the month when social media fills up with gratitude posts, Thanksgiving dinners are planned, and everyone seems to be counting their blessings. But, what if you’re in a season where being thankful feels virtually impossible or like a distant dream?
Maybe it’s because you’re grieving, struggling financially, battling anxiety or just feeling overwhelmed by life. If that’s you, know this: you’re not alone, and God is closer than you think.
Thankfulness in the Struggle
Often we tell ourselves that being thankful means pretending everything is okay. It doesn’t mean denying your pain. Real thankfulness often comes through tears, not smiles.
Psalm 34:18 tells us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This verse isn’t for the people who have it all together; it’s for those who feel like everything is falling apart. God doesn’t wait for you to “get over it” before He draws near. He’s already there, present in the pain, and gentle in your grief.
When we offer thanks in hard seasons, it becomes an act of faith. We’re not thanking God for the pain; we’re thanking Him in the pain, trusting that He’s still good, still sovereign, and still working all things for our good (Romans 8:28).
Even Jesus Wept
One of the most comforting things in Scripture is knowing that Jesus Himself experienced sorrow. In John 11:35, we read the shortest verse in the Bible: “Jesus wept.” He didn’t hide His emotion when his friend died. He entered into human suffering, even when He knew the resurrection was coming.
That’s the Savior who walks with you. He’s not distant or cold. He understands.
Why It’s Still Worth It
So why keep being thankful, even when it’s hard?
Because thankfulness shifts our focus from what’s missing to who God is. It doesn’t magically fix our situation, but it opens our eyes to see God’s hand at work, even in the small things. It’s often said that prayer changes our hearts, not God’s, and practicing thankfulness can have the same effect.
Gratitude reminds us that we are not abandoned. That the same God who led the Israelites through the wilderness, who raised Jesus from the grave, is the same God who is with us today.
And sometimes, just being able to whisper “Thank You, God” in a storm is a victory in itself.
If you’re in a hard place this November, take a deep breath. You don’t need perfect words or a perfect attitude. Just start small. Thank Him for breath in your lungs, for a sunrise and for His promise to never leave you.
And remember: He sees you. He loves you, and He’s nearer than you know.Looking for some resources to help you stay thankful this holiday season? Check out our Resources page for free access to RightNow Media that has thousands of inspirational stories and studies.