Thankfulness
Leads to Hope

“What are you thankful for?” Our missionaries in New York City go to Washington Square Park every week, often asking people this very question. They bring a large whiteboard and markers, inviting people to write their answers. Many enjoy the opportunity to express gratitude for anything from “God” to “family” to “my dog,” but some are hurting and can’t think of what to write. Can you relate? As Thanksgiving approaches, it will be a struggle for some to celebrate. If you are facing this festive season with a sense of loss or uncertainty, I invite you to find hope through thankfulness.

The Challenge to Be Grateful

Life is full of problems and disappointments. The Jewish people have certainly experienced our share of hardships throughout history. We’ve all faced struggles—it’s what we have in common. We know we ought to count our blessings, but how often are our thoughts captivated by news of wars abroad, not to mention uncertainty, or even fear over political outcomes affecting our own country? What happens when we have to deal with a medical diagnosis, a family crisis, or a financial upheaval? It’s challenging to remain grateful.

For some of us, it doesn’t even take a major catastrophe to challenge our thankfulness. Something as seemingly small as a rude comment or an inconsiderate driver can squelch our gratitude. It’s natural to focus on everything that’s wrong all around us—or even inside us. But God invites us to see that true gratitude is not dictated or held hostage by situations and circumstances. True gratitude is rooted in God and His unlimited goodness.

So thanksgiving isn’t merely an action; it’s an awareness of God’s goodness and His love for us. Do we believe He is good? Sometimes we know it in our minds, but it doesn’t change how we feel. I’m not suggesting that thankfulness means turning a blind eye to pain or hardship. But we don’t have to be overcome by these things. Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). How does that work?

The Freedom to Be Grateful

Because of Jesus, we are free to experience God’s goodness in a unique way. No trial we could ever face is bigger than His victory over sin and death or the joy of spending eternity with Him. When we first embrace the gospel, it is as if someone has opened the blinds. The future, once shrouded in darkness, suddenly becomes bright and hopeful, and full of potential. Do you remember the first time you understood the depth of love it took for Yeshua (Jesus) to redeem you? What could be more liberating than the profound sense of thankfulness that washed over you when you realized just how much He cares for you?

Thanksgiving isn’t merely an action; it’s an awareness of God’s goodness and His love for us.

The Choice to Be Grateful

In the book of Philippians, Paul uses the word “rejoice” 19 times. Despite being shipwrecked, imprisoned, and left for dead, Paul chose to rejoice. His choice encourages us to do the same. Then, for good measure, he tells us to rejoice again! To do this, we must remember who God is and what He has done in our lives.

A great way to choose to be grateful is to sing the Scriptures or read them out loud. Psalm 136, known as the “Great Hallel,” is sung during various Jewish celebrations, including Passover. In Hebrew, it reads “Hodu l’Adonai ki tov; Ki leolam chasdo,” which means, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His lovingkindness is everlasting.” This verse is a powerful reminder to give thanks and rejoice in God’s goodness, because again, true thankfulness isn’t based on life going exceptionally well or on personal success. Rather, it’s rooted in the nature of God—and He is good!

Whatever we may be facing, it’s important to ask ourselves what we are focusing on. There will always be bad news, something discouraging. But is that where our attention lies? This Thanksgiving, let’s lean into God’s goodness and love. Sure, count your blessings, and be grateful for the good things in your life—that’s important and healthy. But remember, thankfulness isn’t a response to a good life; it’s a response to a good God.

And yes, God has been so good to give us friends like you, whose prayers and support make it possible for us to reach Jewish people with the gospel. More than ever, my people need to know that despite the darkness in this world, there is hope! We can take heart when we trust the One who has overcome the world!