The question that changed how Alice Johnson gives thanks …

Alice Johnson once shared about a moment in her early days of being a mom and wife that profoundly shaped her perspective on giving thanks to God. She wrote:

“When I was a young mother with two preschoolers, I was often overwhelmed. One night I fell into bed, exhausted. I poured out my frustrations to God. ‘The kids won’t mind, the house is a mess, my husband doesn’t seem to care …’ — the list went on. Suddenly, a voice said to my heart, ‘Which one do you want me to take away?’ Everything I was complaining about was precious to me. Immediately, I began to thank God for everything on my list — something I continue to do now as a grandmother.”

Her story reminds us how easy it is to focus on what frustrates us rather than the blessings God has given us. In our struggles, we may forget that much of what we grumble about represents answered prayers: the family we longed for, the home we worked for, or the opportunities we once dreamed of.

The Bible challenges us to embrace thankfulness as a vital part of our faith. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” Being thankful doesn’t erase difficulties, but it shifts our focus to the greater reality of God’s goodness and faithfulness even in the midst of them.

As we approach Thanksgiving, let’s take time to consider our own “lists.” Are there things you’ve been complaining about that you would grieve if they were gone? Perhaps this is a moment to thank God for what He has entrusted to you, even when it feels overwhelming.

Like Alice, we can learn to cultivate gratitude not only for the good days but also for the challenges that remind us of how deeply blessed we truly are.

Scotty