Gratefulness Challenge this November

​“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good” (Psalm 136:1).

A time for giving thanks is upon us. Here at Rivers Edge we are preparing for this time of gratitude and we would like to help you, our brothers and sisters, get in the spirit as well.   It is easy to become consumed with flights home, cooking turkey and taking time away from busy work lives. What will we miss by taking this time to prepare? Will we fall behind on work or studies? Will we be inconvenienced with preparing our homes and trying to please others? It can also bring anxiety to think of personalities mixing and perhaps all of our family relations don’t bring inherent joy to our hearts. Families are complicated and this can be a difficult time of the year. It is completely normal to become bogged down in the details.  This is where we turn to the Lord and remember one of Jesus’ greatest teachings from the Beatitudes, “Love one another” (John 13:34-35)

In times of unease, we must remember the ultimate love that we have all been given. God loves us every single day. God loves us when we are on fire and excelling, but also on the days we are not so proud of. God knows what is in our hearts, even on the days where we might be even embarrassed of our behaviors and actions and he loves us all the same.  The love the Lord has for us is unwavering; it’s unconditional. We are so blessed to have this example in our lives.  While it might be hard to measure up to that kind of unconditional love, could we make this commitment for November? A commitment to see our families through the lens of loving eyes and look past their superficial idiosyncrasies and political persuasions, and recognize the deeper love that resides in their hearts. What would it take for you to really serve others this month?  Are you willing to take a deep breath and imagining - as you prepare your grocery list for Thanksgiving dinner - the joy you will feel as everyone dines and laughs with full bellies? Is it possible for you to forgive those family members who might have hurt your feelings and not hold it against them at the dinner table? Do you have the determination to reflect Christ’s teachings through your words and actions this season? 

​Maybe you need some spiritual assistance to remove the barriers left on your heart this Thanksgiving? If so, let’s turn to the Beatitudes for inspiration and incorporate their rich meaning into our holiday interactions.

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:3)
Financial stress can impact our minds and even our bodies, but it cannot impact our spirits or the love God shows you every day. The money we spend accommodating and feeding others are wonderful gifts we can give others.  You can gain back money, but you cannot gain back intimate and meaningful time with your loved ones.  

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33)

“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4)

It’s hard to show we are hurting, even with our family members who might have the same hurts. Maybe this is the first year for you without a loved one. Maybe you cannot imagine making your famous oyster dressing without it’s number one fan.  It’s normal to think things will not be the same, and truthfully they won’t. But, we can still enjoy the family we have and praise God for the time we shared for our departed loved ones in Heaven. Instead of hiding those hurts, we can share them with our family and friends.
 
“Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5-9)

In the Bible the word meek is used to describe a teachable and humble person. Can you challenge yourself to be teachable? What does humility look like to you and how can it improve your family relations?

“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled” (Matthew 5:6)
Let us remember the true reason for Thanksgiving. The ham cuts and pumpkin pie are just added bonuses! It is a time to show each other love and reflect with gratitude.  What does your heart hunger and thirst for? Can you clear time in your life to journal or sit in thoughtful prayer and literally count your blessings?

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:6)

Forgiveness is a powerful act. Not just for the person who receives your forgiveness, but for you, as well. Holding on to anger and sorrow can impact your mood towards others and have unpleasant symptoms on your physical body. Forgiveness sets both parties free.  Are you having trouble forgiving? Who is a trusted person in your life that might be able to help you through this deep hurt?

“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8)

This might sound a little off base, but sometimes we have to fake it until we can make it. What does this mean for our spiritual lives? Being “pure at heart” might not come easily, but we can all try! The more we act with our hearts and in the spirit of forgiveness, the more we will see the beauty God has laid all over our paths. Is there a way you could turn this into an art project? Perhaps you could make a mod-podge board with all of the beauty you wish to see in yourself and in others.

“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:6).

We must remember, we are all children of God. Jesus did not just die for your sins only, he died for everyone’s sins.  Maybe, you can look at being a peacemaker this season as a fun challenge! Can you brainstorm or practice loving and thoughtful ways to treat your less than agreeable family members? 

“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10).

The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines righteousness as “acting in accord with divine or moral law : free from guilt or sin”. Persecution isn’t always as dramatic as execution. We can feel persecuted for our beliefs, our hidden biases, the clothes we wear and the cars we drive by words said and unsaid. Sometimes our families know just how to bring these insecurities out in us. If we can remain righteous in our actions though, we are sure to prosper! Can you make a list of 5 righteous acts your willing to do over the Thanksgiving holiday?

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake” (Matthew 5:11).

Be an advocate for Christ this holiday season in all you do, yet keep in mind everyone is on their own journey in their relationship with the Lord. Your own attitude and mannerisms have a powerful effect on others, and if you know someone without a relationship with Christ, you may be the only communication or interaction they have with Him. Love everyone, especially those who don’t know or love the Lord. Be patient, be kind, and pray for them daily.

Here at Rivers Edge, we would love to hear how you plan on making this a season of gratitude that you and your loved ones will fondly remember! All comments shared on social media will be posted at the office to help inspire us all!

Have a safe and blessed Thanksgiving from ALL of US at Rivers Edge Natural Health!