Count Your Blessings This November
Making Thanksgiving Day a True Day of Thanks
Thanksgiving is a time to count your blessings. Here are some simple ways that your family can celebrate the holiday together and remember all your blessings.
The old familiar song says, "Count your blessings. Name them one by one. Count your blessings. See what God has done" (written by Johnson Oatman, Jr. in 1897). There is no better time of year to give thanks for your blessings than Thanksgiving Day. Below are some ideas of how your family can start a tradition of blessing each other and others around them all yearlong.
Prayer. For each day in November set aside a time to pray as a family for the needs of your family and those around you that need comforting, praise, or healing. Plan your prayer calendar in advance, and be ready to jump in together from November 1.
Food Drive. When you feel thankful for the food on your table and say your mealtime blessings, remember those who are not having a meal. Perhaps you could start a neighborhood food collection drive or participate in one at your church. To make this an even more awarding experience for you and your family, volunteer to deliver the food to families in need in person. If you would like to start a drive in your neighborhood, contact your local Social Services agency to provide you with a family in need.
Tree of Thanks. Construct a small tree by using pipe cleaners for the trunk and branches, a clay pot, and some Styrofoam. Make some leaves from construction paper. For every day in November have each family member tape or glue a leaf on the tree with writing that explains something they are thankful for. Just watch as your tree grows each day and how full it will be by Thanksgiving Day!
Sprinkles of Joy. Spontaneously send your neighbor a note telling them how you appreciated them taking care of your mail while you were on vacation, or send a card to a family friend that has moved away telling them that you miss them. Letting people know that you care about them is more than just what you think. You have to say it out loud...so they can hear you.
Bible Verses. Here is a list of Bible verses that should help you and your family remember how blessed you are. Try memorizing them together as a family. For younger children, you can paraphrase the verse, so they can still join in the fun. Scripture is from the NIV.
- Psalm 118:24 ~ "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."
- Philippians 4:13 ~ "I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
